Community Collaboration
KEF created a private-public fund that helped reverse three decades of challenges for our public schools and reinforced the importance of play for our students. During its operation, this innovative funding solution supported playspaces across Knox County Schools.
Partnership to Sustain Change
During its operation, the Playspace Fund added new play structures and met updated ADA requirements for inclusive play. Through a partnership with Knox County Schools (KCS), the approach to funding and maintaining school playspaces shifted. KCS designated a full-time position to manage playspaces and increased the maintenance fund to assist schools with the upkeep of play structures. From that point forward, all newly built schools included a playground— establishing a lasting legacy of improvement.
Why Does Play Matter?
Playgrounds provide opportunities for physical activity, coordination, balance, strength, and are essential for maintaining good health.
Playgrounds increase the development of emotional intelligence and allow children to interact with their peers, creating strong skills in communication, cooperation, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
Play encourages creativity and imagination, allowing children to explore new ideas, scenarios, and roles. This fosters the development of creative thinking, innovation, the ability to see things from different perspectives, as well as opportunities for children to learn more about themselves through various play experiences and exploration.
Exposure to nature and outdoor play have been associated with effective learning in the classroom by improved attention, reduced stress, and enhanced cognitive function, all of which contribute to a positive classroom learning experience. Activities such as climbing, balancing, and navigating obstacle courses help enhance a child's problem-solving skills, spatial awareness, and decision-making abilities.
FAQs
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Renderings of Playgrounds
