HARRISBURG, PA (March 19, 2025) - Playgrounds are increasingly incorporating natural elements, with research suggesting that natural settings significantly enhance children's physical, cognitive, and emotional development, reports the International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA), a non-profit trade association. Beyond plastic and metal structures, play spaces are going back to the basics by featuring elements like logs, flower beds, boulders, trees, and more.

Integrating natural elements into play spaces offers a range of developmental benefits that enhance children's physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, natural play elements provide diverse sensory experiences and encourage active exploration, which fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and resilience. Play spaces with natural elements also help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being by connecting children with nature and offering opportunities for unstructured play.

"Connecting kids with nature is essential for their well-being, helping them feel better, focus more, and grow into happier, healthier individuals," said Dr. Suzanne Quinn of KOMPAN Play Institute Manager, Americas and member of IPEMA. "Despite challenges like space, cost, and maintenance in urban areas, it's crucial to prioritize nature in play spaces to nurture our humanity."

Traditional playground equipment, on the other hand, provides structured activities that develop motor skills, coordination, and social interactions through climbing, swinging, rocking, gliding, and spinning. When combined, natural elements and traditional equipment create a balanced, well-rounded outdoor play experience and environment. Natural features like rocks, logs, and water elements can be integrated with durable manufactured equipment like slides, swings, and climbing structures to offer a comprehensive play experience that supports a wide range of developmental needs while stimulating a child's imagination and sense of adventure.

 

Dr. Quinn supports this by explaining, "Along with a variety of non-toxic plants, shrubs, trees, and touchable natural materials in the play space, there should be a variety of structures to support movements, such as climbing, swinging, spinning, rocking, swaying, and balancing. These activities should be accessible and usable for persons of all abilities."

Playground industry experts are recognizing that local municipalities want designs that feature natural materials, whether they're existing or added to well-established playground spaces.

There are important considerations to make in the planning process for a new and safe nature-infused playground. Communities with modern playgrounds should consider how natural elements can be safely built into their design to encourage more cohesiveness with their surroundings. This includes site design, layout, gardens or other special areas, and overall safety surfacing.

It is also important to note that playground designs that desire more nature play and natural playgrounds should still include traditional play types with durable manufactured equipment that allow for types of play like swinging, gliding, and spinning. It is crucial to provide both natural and traditional play to provide a well-rounded outdoor play experience.

"Design tips I recommend for nature play and natural playgrounds is to create a playful and welcoming atmosphere for all people," Dr. Quinn said. "Activate the senses with nature that is touchable, smellable, and seeable. Activate the body with play events to choose from including climbing, swinging, spinning, balancing, rocking, and sliding. And overall, respect nature and our common worlds."

Combining both natural and traditional play elements enhances child development. Natural elements improve sensory and emotional growth, while traditional equipment builds physical and social skills. By thoughtfully integrating both, communities can create engaging, balanced play spaces that inspire creativity and growth.

About IPEMA
The International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) is a non-profit trade association for manufacturers of public play equipment and surfacing materials, as well as consultants and suppliers related to the industry. IPEMA also provides a product certification program for public play equipment and surfacing materials. To learn more or become a member, visit IPEMA.org.

Contacts:
Michelle Keyser, 717.238.1744, communications@ipema.org
Lauren Gorbey, 717.873.6375, lgorbey@prworksinc.com