Intentional, nature-rich, well-designed outdoor learning environments have a high perceived value and contribute to consumer satisfaction. In addition, the growing millennial demand for natural play and aesthetically pleasing, environmentally friendly spaces means that programs can rethink outdoor spaces. We will explore the benefits, added value, and cost-effectiveness of nature-rich spaces in this session.

1. The Changing Landscape of Playgrounds
Audrey Rowland, MS MBA
www.greenspacetx.com

2. Objectives
• Think intentionally about our outdoor
learning spaces
• Examine the benefits of nature-rich design
• Evaluate cost and ROI on nature
playgrounds
• Create a plan to increase nature in our
centers
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

3. Discussion
What is the purpose of a
playground?
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

4. Classic Playgrounds
• Large, fixed structures
• Intended to enhance curb-
appeal
• 1 or 2 elements
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

5. Discussion
With a partner, list the pros and cons of the traditional playscape-
centered playground.
Identify at least 3 of each.
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

6. Why Natural Playgrounds?
● Spending unhurried hours in the natural world leads to improved mental
health and obesity prevention
● Natural elements allow longer periods of sustained focus and
concentration
● Sensory development in infancy and toddlerhood is critical to behavior
regulation and school readiness
● Programs with natural spaces are more visually interesting and distinctive
and appeal to urban families with reduced outdoor space at home
● Intentional, well-designed spaces have a high perceived value and
contribute to consumer satisfaction
● Growing millennial demand for natural play and aesthetically pleasing,
environmentally friendly spaces
● Less expensive to maintain than traditional play structures and combine
functional play areas with landscaping.
6

7. Rethinking the Playscape
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

8. A Nature-Rich Alternative
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

9. A Nature-Rich Alternative
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

10. Discussion
• What is gained when we include Natural Elements?
• What is lost when we give up traditional playscapes?
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

11. Traditional Playground Budget
• Preschool Playscape
• Structure
• Fall Zone Material
• Toddler Play structure
• Infant Play Materials
• Bike Track
• Sod or other surface
• Landscaping
• Fencing
• Shade Structures
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

12. Natural Playground Budget
• Hard Surfaces
• Vegetation
• Loose Materials
• Landscaping
• Fencing
• Materials
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

13. ROI
• Initial Investment
• Sustainability
• Depreciation
• Wear and Tear
• Dating
• Renovation costs
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com

14. Discussion
• Thoughts and Questions
• Next Steps
• Things to research further
Green Space Learning & Development
www.greenspacetx.com