THE BENEFITS OF NATURE-BASED PLAY

CREATIVITY AND PROBLEM SOLVING

Unique play pieces formed in natural shapes are non-prescriptive, which means children do not have preconceptions about how to use them. Logs and branches create unusual obstacles that have children constantly experimenting with alternate ways of using the play elements.

Experimentation is essential to developing creativity and problem-solving skills. The different shapes and textures in natural timber also stimulate the imagination, leading children to come up with endless games and scenarios within their play.

JOINT DEXTERITY AND RANGE OF MOTION

While regulations on walkways and floors help people stay safe from unexpected falls, there is a downside to always having flat areas to walk on. Studies show children are now less exposed to changes in surfacing, and joint dexterity and ankle articulations are less refined and developed, which could cause problems later in life.

Uneven surfaces and natural bumps and shapes help strengthen muscles and joints and develop balance and ability to adapt, which is essential for preventing injury when running on natural ground with divots and slopes.

The preformed plastic surfaces of traditional playgrounds, even on the balance equipment, do not provide the benefits of textural natural surfaces, which encourages small but complex joint adaptation that develops over time with frequent use.

RISK ASSESSMENT AND SELF-AWARENESS

Children are fantastic learners, and the best way to learn is through personal challenge and development. Engaging with non-prescriptive play equipment means each child can set their own goals and reach their own level of mastery.

Activities such as log balance challenges can be conquered by clambering, balancing or climbing across. Students learn by doing — assessing their own abilities and failures in a safe environment and making decisions on how best to approach a challenge. This type of self-assessment is incredibly useful and meaningful, and is tied to greater self-esteem and lifelong learning.

ABOUT TIMBER CREATIONS

A small, specialised team based on the Central Coast in NSW, Timber Creations are experts in child development, carpentry and nature play. Effectively combining art and construction, the team, under the leadership of Andrew Smith, sculptor, carpenter, playground artist and Director of Timber Creations, create beautiful and functional play structures for inclusive, large-scale playspaces.

All play elements crafted by Timber Creations are made from local, sustainably-sourced, recycled timber, manufactured to commercial play equipment standards for public use.

Find out more about how your next project can benefit from nature-based play structures from Timber Creations via the links below.