Barry Leahey: Why playgrounds are vital to childhood development

Between 2011 and 2023, public playground budgets fell by more than £350m. As a result, between 2013 and 2023, almost 800 public use playgrounds across the UK closed, with budget constraints commonly cited as the driving force.

Although public-use playgrounds have suffered as a result of budgetary concerns, outdoor play remains vitally important to childhood development. This kind of play informs children about the world they live in, encourages social function and teaches valuable lessons about the environment.

These dedicated areas are vital for children to safely learn how to interact with each other and the world around them – without access to play areas, positive cognitive and physical development becomes more difficult.

Giving children the right to play

According to Save the Children UK, just one in four children play out on their street regularly, compared to three in four of their grandparents’ generation. Today’s children are regularly chastised by parents or neighbours for being loud or excitable in the street, discouraging them from further outdoor play.

With this in mind, the importance of dedicated outdoor spaces is clear. Every child has a right to play, according to the United Nations, and playgrounds teach children the value of being active in a space that’s safe and won’t cause disruption.

Time spent at the playground also gives children a chance to practice their social skills in a less-regulated environment than the classroom. This helps boost social skills such as listening and comprehension, reading social cues and even apologising to peers for mistakes.

Playground design can inform and facilitate social actions, too – communal equipment is important in encouraging children to come out of their shell and spend time together.

Children learn that their actions have consequences – even if their parents or teachers might not be able to intervene right away. Understanding that fact helps children reinforce the good lessons they receive at home and school.

Through play, children at various ages also have the opportunity to learn important lessons about inclusion and community. School and public playgrounds provide a space for children to interact independently with peers of different ability levels, increasing understanding and acceptance of children living with disabilities.

Outdoor play offers children the chance to connect with nature and begin to better understand the world around them. The play environment itself encourages and informs exactly how children see and interact with the immediate environment.

Find out more about Playdale Playgrounds here