In the fast-paced digital age we live in, where children are often glued to screens, it’s more important than ever to encourage physical activity and outdoor play among school students. Climbing and play equipment not only provide a fun and engaging experience but also offer numerous benefits for the cognitive, social and physical development of children. The health advantages of climbing and play equipment and how they contribute to the holistic growth of school students is a topic well represented in research.
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:1
Climbing and play equipment promote physical fitness. Engaging in activities such as climbing, swinging, sliding, and balancing help develop strength, coordination, and flexibility in children. These activities challenge their motor skills, allowing them to refine their movements and develop a sense of body awareness. By encouraging children to use climbing and play equipment, schools can foster a lifelong love for physical fitness.
Climbing and play equipment also play a crucial role in cognitive development. When children navigate and interact with these structures, they are required to use problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and spatial awareness. Climbing structures present children with opportunities to make decisions, plan their movements, and assess risks, all of which contribute to the development of their cognitive abilities. Moreover, play equipment stimulates imagination and creativity, allowing children to engage in imaginative play and develop their storytelling skills.
One of the most significant advantages of climbing and play equipment is the opportunity they provide for social interaction. When children engage in outdoor play, they learn to communicate, collaborate, and negotiate with their peers. Climbing structures often require teamwork and cooperation, as children might need to assist each other or take turns. This fosters the development of social skills, including empathy, patience, and sharing.
This holistic development for our students is the motivation behind the planning and building of the new Wild Play Zone in the Junior School. Our community partnership fundraising campaign has been launched and it is wonderful to see our banners on the entrance and exit fences to the college showing some of the “big ticket” areas in this creative play space. We hope that you will walk with us in striving to provide experiences for our students outside of the classroom and removed from digital screens.
Please follow the link below to view the donation page and make a donation.
Dr Darnelle Pretorius
Principal