Hull has a wide variety of playgrounds and play areas in our parks, recreation grounds and green spaces.
The playgrounds and play areas in our parks are a great way for kids to get active outdoors. They can learn essential physical skills such as climbing, jumping and balancing at an early age, interact with other kids and have fun while being active!
Many of our playgrounds and play areas have undergone refurbishments and modernisations over the last few years. These include East Park, Pearson Park and Pickering Park to name a few.
The benefits of play and playgrounds
Play is an essential part of every child’s life and is vital for the enjoyment of childhood. Social, emotional, intellectual and physical development are also incredibly important.
Research shows that play has many benefits for children, families and the wider community. This is as well as improving health and quality of life. It suggests that children’s access to good play provision can -
- increase their self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-respect
- improve and maintain their physical and mental health
- give them the opportunity to mix with other children
- allow them to increase their confidence through developing new skills
- promote their imagination, independence and creativity
- offer opportunities for children of all abilities and backgrounds to play together
- provide opportunities for developing social skills and learning
- build resilience through risk taking, problem solving, and dealing with new situations
- provide opportunities to learn about their environment and the wider community
Evidence is also available that outlines wider benefits of play provisions for families and communities. It suggests that -
- parents can feel more secure knowing that their children are happy, safe and enjoying themselves
- families benefit from healthier, happier children
- buildings and facilities used by play services are frequently seen as a focal point for communities
- it offers opportunities for social interaction for the wider community
- it supports the development of a greater sense of community spirit, promoting social cohesion
- public outside spaces have an important social role as a place for meeting friends
- parks and other green spaces are popular with adults taking young children out to play
