PLAYGROUND SURVEYS

The design of a playground, the objects and materials it contains and the types of play experiences it enables can be vital in supporting the kinds of play activities that are fundamental to the wellbeing of children of all ages and abilities.

There is a very close relationship between many children's games and the places where they play them. Understanding this relationship is very important, because any changes made to the playground are likely to have an effect on the children's play.

Schools and other organisations who are having their grounds redesigned or landscaped are often unaware that the changes they are planning can greatly affect the play of their students and unsettle the playground.

A playground survey will give a snapshot of the state of play in the school. It will document how children are currently using their playing areas and identify places of special importance to the children. This generates a cultural map of the playground, which is included in the report, along with a detailed list of games and play activities, an analysis of play at the school and discussion of particular issues, with suggestions or recommendations that can inform the planning for future development or changes to the landscape.

Sometimes there are hidden traditions in the school playground, which are only revealed through this detailed observation and documentation of the children's play.

Download paper: The Hidden Heritage of the Schoolyard

• Children's Programs
• Displays & Presentations
• Playground Surveys
• Professional Development

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