The importance of play to kids, families and communities is well known. Play is more than fun; it’s essential. It builds physical strength, supports emotional well-being and sparks creativity. For children, play lays the foundation for lifelong learning and healthy habits. For communities, it creates spaces where people connect, grow and feel a sense of belonging. As part of the play industry for more than 100 years, we know this and champion these vital places every day, creating environments that invite everyone to move, explore and thrive together.
Kids, families and communities need play now more than ever for better overall health, socialization and fun. According to a recent study published in Contemporary Economic Policy, children who live within a half mile of recreational trails show healthier BMI scores and are less likely to be obese than their peers. In Chicago, research on updated play environments found that inclusive and active playground designs significantly increased the time children spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity.
Mental health benefits are just as compelling. A 2023 report in JAMA Network Open found that young teens who volunteer or participate in community-centered activities are 25% less likely to experience anxiety and twice as likely to report excellent overall health. These findings reflect more than physical wellness; they point to stronger emotional resilience and a greater sense of belonging.
For us in the outdoor recreation and play industry, this is a call to action. We have the opportunity to shape spaces and experiences that support holistic well-being, spark joy and strengthen the socialization and pride of every community we serve. There are so many ways to do this - these five are a starting point.
5 Ways to Create Healthy Community Spaces
- Embrace Access for All
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that 17% of children ages 3-17 have a differing ability that affects mobility, cognition, hearing, vision, independent living and/or self-care and 1 in 36 children is affected by autism. A 2022 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health noted that “inclusive playgrounds that are designed to be … accessible and welcoming to children with disabilities may provide equal access to play for all children.”
Recognizing this, many communities are moving beyond basic Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance to embrace true access for all. Playground designs now include play events like the Burke 360 Loop® and Brava® Universal Swing that help more children have an independent play experience. Many also offer a range of rich sensory experiences, as well as lower-stimulation areas where kids can step away from the action.
- Add Nature Play
The CDC says, “Nature play improves mental health, supports physical activity and enhances creativity in children.” NRPA agreed, noting in 2023 that connection with nature is associated with improved physical health, mental well-being, social interaction, communication skills, creativity, cognitive development, risk assessment, resilience and appreciation for nature and environmental stewardship.
Nature-based playspaces can incorporate items such as logs and boulders, which can even be made from glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) for added durability, existing water features and native plants around the playspace. In some parks, innovative designs might include climbing boulders and towers, as well as climbers and slides that incorporate natural hillsides.
- Promote Adventure Play
Climbers, balancing equipment, towers and free-play spaces allow children to use their imaginations and take age-appropriate risks. Adventure provides a stimulating and engaging play experience for children and helps get them off their screens and outside.
- Make Music Outdoors
Playful, interactive musical experiences in familiar environments like playgrounds ignite curiosity, imagination and exploration. It also encourages collaboration, bringing together community members of different ages and abilities.
Musical elements enhance accessibility for all, especially for children without access to music lessons or programs. PlayEnsemble® by Burke is a great way to bring music outside and provide opportunities for all children to experience the joy and development of playing music.
- Bring Generations Together
Playspaces designed for intergenerational engagement invite natural connection. These spaces are not just for play; they are for presence. For listening and learning. For telling stories, sharing skills and knowledge and building trust and understanding. When design supports interaction without barriers, relationships grow stronger and communities grow closer. Parks designed to bring generations together become vital gathering places. They encourage active lifestyles, spark joy and help create a sense of community pride. In that, they serve a deeper purpose by nurturing the health of both the people and the communities they serve.
Creating thriving community spaces is one way we can get and keep kids, families and communities outside together. Join Our Movement® to start!
Explore the ways Burke can help you create more accessible and inclusive outdoor spaces that bring your community together. Contact your nearest Burke Representative for more information.