The Impact of a Natural Playscape Installation on Young Children’s Play Behaviors

Abstract

This mixed-methods study focused on environmental affordances and play behaviors during a shift from a traditional to a natural playscape in an early childhood setting. Researchers examined how well the playscape attracted and held children’s attention in cooperative, constructive, nature, and locomotor play. Analysis of pre- and post-installation time-sampling observations, field notes, and interviews with children revealed more complex play narratives post-construction, highlighting the importance of intentionally designed natural playscapes to promote development. A playscape feature’s attracting power and holding time revealed relationships between play types and sand and water, the role of loose parts, accessible materials, and carefully designed pathways that expanded play narratives across the playscape.