Schools are preparing to close for the long summer break, which makes the next few weeks the perfect time to update the playground, so it can look as good as new for the next academic term.
There are so many benefits of playing outside for children, including getting more vitamin D to support the immune system and bone development; encouraging kids to take part in exercise; improving their gross motor skills; boosting their social skills as they learn how to play together; and developing an appreciation of nature.
It also helps improve their executive function, as they plan, negotiate and undertake different activities; enhances their imaginative thinking; and encourages them to take risks and build their confidence when they do so.
Some children, however, need structure when it comes to outdoor play, and are more likely to participate if there is playground equipment, trim trails, or markings on the floor that give them ideas of what activities they can do when outside.
This is why playground markings, such as ones for hopscotch, goals, snakes and ladders, roads, active trails, number charts, compasses, and race tracks, are so important.
They inspire children to think of new games that incorporate the markings, without restricting their imagination. For instance, using a number chart, they might try to avoid landing on a square with certain numbers in, or they may use the same grid to play games involving additions.
Some schools have positive affirmations on their playground floor, which helps boost pupils’ self-esteem and improve their mental health, as well as getting them outdoors and keeping them active.
If your markings are looking a little faded as the end of the school year approaches, now is the ideal time to book line marking removal and get them redone. The long summer break is an opportunity to revamp the playground while the weather is fine and the paint has a long enough time to dry.