Sandboxes, loose parts, and playground equipment: a descriptive exploration of outdoor play environments

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the study was to examine outdoor environments to understand whether or not young children had access to play materials and loose parts to enhance their playful experiences. This study sought to gather the availability of SAFE and quality play opportunities in early childhood outdoor environments. The study took place in one state of the United States. The study found 75% of outdoor spaces had a playground structure that including a place for children to climb and slide down. The study found 83% of programs had appropriate surfacing materials provided in the outdoor play environment. Loose parts, such as toys, balls, and action figures were also included in the outdoor play and learning environment. The significance of play that this study shows is outdoor environments have an abundant opportunities to support the developmental characteristics of children.

KEYWORDS:

• Playgrounds
• outdoor play environments
• loose parts
• playground safety
• playground materials

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

Dr. Heather Olsen is an Associate Professor and serves as the Executive Director of the National Program for Playground Safety. Along with teaching classes, her work includes providing education and training to early childcare programs, elementary schools, afterschool programs, and park departments. Dr. Olsen has been associated with the development of childrens outdoor play areas and educating the public about maintenance, supervision, and age appropriateness. She has given numerous presentations throughout the country about safe outdoor environments, has written many articles on playgrounds, and has co-authored S.A.F.E. Play Areas: Creation, Maintenance, and Renovation and SAFE and Fun Playgrounds.

Brandy Smith, doctoral candidate in early childhood education. She currently serves as the Program Coordinator for the National Program for Playground Safety. She has 20 years of experience in education and implementing training programs for early care and education. She has developed and implemented numerous trainings supporting physical, cognitive, and social-emotional domains of childhood. Over the years, she has developed a passion for professional development of those that care for and educate children.