Active play is an essential element in the physical, emotional and social development of young children. Speech, coordination, cognition, mood regulation and positive social relationships are all linked to good physical development in the early years. Without active play, children may suffer from learning difficulties, speech difficulties, visual perceptual disturbances and social isolation.

Up to a quarter of UK children are overweight or obese and only 21% of boys and 16% of girls aged 5 to 15 achieve the recommended levels of physical activity, which is 60 minutes a day spread throughout the day. This activity should include cardiovascular elements on a moderate to vigorous level as well as activities that strengthen bones and muscles, such as jumping and climbing.

The only way UK children can achieve the recommended levels of physical activity is if schools come on board to provide facilities that promote and encourage a range of movement that is enjoyable and engaging to children. It has been shown that children who live closer to playgrounds are more active. It is clear that school playgrounds need to be used more imaginatively.

An effective way is to transform the school playground or a part of it into a fitness trail. This is exactly where Playground Imagineering shines. “We are a design led school playground equipment supplier with an innovative approach to playground designs that is inspired by the needs of the chidren who use them,” explains John Hughes, Director of Playground Imagineering.

Playground Imagineering works with the school to develop a solution to their playground needs. “We understand the need to take the classroom outdoors. We believe that a collaborative
design approach works best,” says Hughes. “We have off the shelf solutions or can design new products to suit your requirements.”

Playground Imagineering has already created over 20 stunning school fitness trails which can be viewed on their website.

Every project includes an assessment, the design process, manufacturing to the highest standards and finally installation. “Safety is paramount and so the products we develop and supply meet the EN1176 British and European standard for play equipment. We use high specification materials to help ensure the equipment we provide not only looks good, but lasts,” says Hughes.

Service doesn't end with installation. “Our experienced installers have DBS certificates and we'll manage the project from start to finish. On completion you'll receive a Customer Manual including guarantees and advice on inspecting and maintaining the equipment. Going forward, we can provide inspection and maintenance services,” says Hughes.

Being active from a young age increases quality of life and chances of a longer, healthier and more independent life. Physical activity plays a key role in brain development in early childhood and is also good for longer term educational attainment. “It's easy to see that schools that invest in playground fitness trails will reap the benefits of healthier, happier pupils,” says Hughes.

Helpful tips from Hughes on developing a school fitness trail include being aware of the key stages of the developing child, considering the parts of the curriculum to be enhanced outdoors, noting any themes or unique ideas, and considering the space available, budget constraints and the time frame envisaged.

“As playground specialists with over 25 years experience, we understand the restrictions that can sometimes impact on developing your playground, from tight budgets to limited space,” says Hughes. “We will be able to produce a design to cover all the bases, from curriculum based learning to a child’s personal, social and emotional development.”

The Playground Imagineering team are always happy to help. They offer free site visits and are available to chat about any specific solutions required for an imaginative playground space that encourages physical literacy, fitness and a lifelong love of movement.

Playground Imagineering is a design led school playground equipment supplier that prides itself on its capacity to meet the specific needs of all its customers. Playground Imagineering develops, manufactures and installs school fitness and adventure trails, messy play areas, sand play areas, water play areas, climbing structures and a range of play structures and other playground necessities. As playground specialists with over 25 years experience, they understand the restrictions that can impact on developing a playground, from tight budgets to limited space. They are able to produce a design to cover all the bases, from curriculum based learning to a child’s personal, social and emotional development. Playground Imagineering has off the shelf solutions or can design new products to suit specific requirements. Safety is paramount and all playground equipment is manufactured to EN1176 British and European standards for play equipment and all installers have DBS certificates. The Playground Imagineering team is always happy to help, conduct a site visit and discuss any specific needs. For more information and to view products, please visit: https://playgroundimagineering.co.uk.