Project

Safe Spaces Initiative

We know that the quality of the outdoor environment matters. Children are more likely to enjoy and engage in environments that are flexible, where equipment is open-ended and can function in multiple ways (e.g., balls, sandboxes, self-constructed forts), and where active play is supported. In fact, safe places for children to play and interact and are designed in a holistically manner can impact children’s creative thinking, sense of competence, and motor skill development. The purpose of an outdoor environment is to encourage children to be active, to give them a break from being indoors, and to support learning in a variety of environments. Similar to an indoor learning environment, an outdoor space should be safe and organized and include planned activities for all members of their families.