Mastering Through Repetition

A lot of parents ask me about which playgrounds to go for nature experiences, climbing structures for little ones, risky play etc 

Whilst all very important questions, the big lesson that I have learned, is to 

go to the same park regularly.

Children need to feel safe to explore. Parents need to feel that their children are safe to let them explore.  Being familiar with the equipment, the surroundings allows for optimal exploration of the playground.

Every playground has different opportunities and some have the same. The more the child is familiar with the playground they will take on different challenges, repeat the same moves on the equipment and each time learn something new.

We have been lucky enough to have a playground at the end of my street. My daughter was a non-mobile baby when we first got there. She would lie on the grass and roll, however, each time she would move closer and closer to the playground. The first equipment she explored was the slide – climbing up and down – slowing herself with her feet to make sure she could go up again. 1 year has past and she has found the tall slide with the long stairs, the rocking seat which she can get into her self and lately the swing.

My son who is 3 is the same. Each time we have gone to the park and on average once a day, has found something new to challenge his abilities. He began by hanging upside down on the bar on top of the slide and now is reaching to the high bar and lifting up his feet to swing around.

Children are not bored of playgrounds – we adults get bored of the same scenery. Children find new ways to use the equipment on their own or with others. The more comfortable they are in the environment the more likely they will test their abilities and learn something new.

Observe More, Enjoy Most 

Vanessa

I would love you to share some of your favourite playgrounds you and your children enjoy and why?

And please share any lessons you have learned from watching your children at playgrounds - I have a few more that I hope to share it in a later blog post.