The Rise of Adventure Play Provision in North America

Authors

  • Joan Almon
  • Rusty Keeler Just Play Project

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7721/chilyoutenvi.28.2.0067

Keywords:

adventure playgrounds, loose parts, North America

Abstract

Play provision, which includes time and space for play, is making a comeback in the U.S. and Canada after several decades of serious decline. One indicator is the formation of six new adventure playgrounds in the U.S. in the past five years. They follow the tradition of such playgrounds in the U.K. and provide children with abundant loose parts for play and trained staff who support children’s play without directing it. Loose parts and trained play staff are also finding their way into schoolyards and summer camps. The North American Adventure Play Association (NAAPA) is developing workshops and trainings for play staff, and providing an avenue for play advocates to seek out and help one another. Play provision in general, and especially play rich in adventure and risk, is on the rise again.

Published

2022-02-23