PLAY AND THE PANDEMIC
07 Apr 2022
No question, the pandemic has put a focus on our relationships and new ways of staying connected. Many of us experiencing lockdowns for the first time are now appreciating the value of the great outdoors.
Being outdoors offers all sorts of benefits for people young and old. It gives us a chance to share time with family and friends. It’s also good for our overall fitness. We can even get a bit of vitamin D. Outdoor play re-energises us all. It gives us a chance to feel joy, away from our electronic devices. During the pandemic, when kids were home-schooling, playing outdoors became even more important.
For children, outdoor play builds both physical and mental resilience. But not all activities are the same. Structured sports like scheduled tennis and soccer games don’t have the same organic ‘playful’ feel compared to other types of activities. Giving kids the ability to feel the freedom of having fun at their own pace is important.
That’s what a local pump track offers communities. A well-designed pump track is a safe, social and healthy activity, helping parents feel good when their kids head out after school or on weekends. 
FOUR BIG TRENDS IN PLAYSPACE DESIGN
Even before the pandemic, we’ve seen at least four major trends influencing how landscape architects and playspace designers create playgrounds and outdoor recreational spaces.
MULTI-GENERATIONAL PLAYGROUNDS
Playgrounds are not just for kids. People of all ages benefit from outdoor activities. And playspaces which accommodate both young and old give people the opportunity to spend time together. 
A FOCUS ON ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSIVITY
The benefits of play are universal. Creating playgrounds that give people of all ages and abilities access is important on so many levels. There’s the legal aspect of avoiding discrimination of course. But there’s also the recognition that inclusive, accessible playgrounds foster empathy and understanding. 
NATURE-BASED PLAYGROUNDS
Playgrounds that harmonise with their surrounding environment and use natural materials continue to be popular. Nature-themed playspaces help connect children in urban areas with the natural world.
THEMED PLAYGROUNDS
Inspiring the imagination, these unique and creative playgrounds are fast becoming popular installations in local and regional parks.
In Australia, local councils and park designers are also catching on to the benefits of Parkitect pump tracks. “The pandemic has certainly highlighted the value of outdoor activities,” says Shaun Leicester, Managing Director of Parkitect Australia. 
“In the past, I think people thought that all pump tracks were the same. The fact that ours are suitable for all ages, and can be used by riders on bikes, skateboards, and scooters, means they’re extremely versatile. Of course, our free design service is icing on the cake.”
For more information Parkitect’s Modular Pumptracks click on the links below. 
