When I am looking for playgrounds to review I’d like it to fit into at least one of the following categories:
1. A big playground
There’s no sense in me reviewing every little tot lot in Calgary. If nothing else, the playground should at least be a decent size.
2. A themed playground
Themes just make playgrounds better. This one below in Prestwick is pretty spectacular, but even a more subtle theme in an otherwise basic playgrounds makes it seem special.
3. A playground with unique equipment
Sometimes even decent playgrounds can seem monotonous because all the equipment is exactly the same as the playground down the street.
4. A playground at a unique location
Sometimes the playground doesn’t have to be the focus at all if it’s located in a really interesting place.
5. A playground inside a great park
A beautiful park with pathways and picnic tables makes any playground better.
6. An accessible/inclusive playground
I would pretty much review any playground that had accessible flooring. It’s not only beneficial for people in wheelchairs, it’s helpful for anyone with reduced motor skills and toddlers just learning to walk.
Inclusive playgrounds consider more than just flooring to help make sure everyone gets a chance to play with their friends.
7. Water features
Wading pool or spray park, water is just plain fun.
Yay! I’m so excited to get back outside and go to the playgrounds now that the snow is melting. I have a feeling I’m going to turn into one of your reviewers because Every Time we pass a playground my daughter says “maybe we can go to the playground someday” in a very longing way. Our plan is to go to as many as possible this summer. We are getting a new Spray Park right by our house too (Canmore Park) so I will do a review of that once they finish it and it is warm enough to go. Who knows – maybe we will see each other out on the playground one of these days.
Again thank you for your work. You make planning for a day out of the house very easy.
Keep it coming!