Faculty Publications

Sandboxes, Loose Parts, And Playground Equipment: A Descriptive Exploration Of Outdoor Play Environments

Document Type

Article

Keywords

loose parts, outdoor play environments, playground materials, playground safety, Playgrounds

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Early Child Development and Care

Volume

187

Issue

5-6

First Page

1055

Last Page

1068

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine outdoor environments to understand whether or not young children had access to play materials and loose parts to enhance their playful experiences. This study sought to gather the availability of SAFE and quality play opportunities in early childhood outdoor environments. The study took place in one state of the United States. The study found 75% of outdoor spaces had a playground structure that including a place for children to climb and slide down. The study found 83% of programs had appropriate surfacing materials provided in the outdoor play environment. Loose parts, such as toys, balls, and action figures were also included in the outdoor play and learning environment. The significance of play that this study shows is outdoor environments have an abundant opportunities to support the developmental characteristics of children.

Department

Department of Health, Recreation, and Community Services

Department

National Program for Playground Safety

Original Publication Date

6-3-2017

DOI of published version

10.1080/03004430.2017.1282928

Repository

UNI ScholarWorks, Rod Library, University of Northern Iowa

Language

en

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