4 minute read
Power Play
New Play Spaces Support the Academic, Physical and Social Growth of Students
A playground is more than just a place for children to play. It’s a learning tool that promotes cognitive, social and emotional development.
At Westchester Country Day School, the opening of a new Lower School playground has marked a significant milestone in the school’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education and an emphasis on holistic wellness.
The nature-based design blends into the wooded landscape of campus to inspire students to take an interest in exploring the great outdoors. It offers a variety of play features to get the body moving through swinging, sliding and climbing and the brain working through social play and creative expression.
The most exciting feature — a large slide and climbing wall built into the hillside terrain — even encourages students to come out of their comfort zone and take a bit of a risk.
More than just a place to have fun, the playground and the school’s other outdoor recreational spaces, are vital tools for fostering learning and development in students of all ages.
Not Just Playing Around
When the Lower School students go outside, they might think they are just playing, but science shows that play is essential to their development. The teachers of Westchester’s youngest Wildcats understand this. They factor movement into the school day to develop the gross motor skills that are building blocks to the fine motor skills needed for future school success.
For example, before children can sit at desks and practice neat handwriting, they must build the muscle strength that provides the stamina to do this. And while their play is helping their bodies become strong, coordinated and balanced, it is also helping their brains make crucial neural connections.
“Where adults may view the playground as a place to let loose and get the wiggles out, to a child, it’s where they learn important skills such as decision making, problem solving and taking risks,” explains Blair Hawley, head of Lower School.
Play also provides opportunities for social interaction and cooperation, helping children develop essential values like friendship and teamwork.
A committee of pre-K, kindergarten and first grade teachers advised the design of Westchester’s new playground based on their research and observations of the foundational skills children need.
“Play is a vital part of a child’s development, and that is why it was so important that we thoughtfully planned the details to give purpose to this new playground,” Hawley says.
Kids Don't Outgrow the Need for Movement
While play may be more associated with younger children, Westchester faculty members know that movement is equally important for teenagers. In fact, one of the lessons learned from holding school in-person during the coronavirus pandemic is the importance of “brain breaks” for Middle and Upper School students. Short bursts of physical activity, like playing four square, lift spirits and improve focus.
Physical activity can have a significant impact on both mental and physical health. It can reduce stress and anxiety while improving memory, attention and problem-solving skills. Regular exercise can enhance academic performance with a boost to mood and motivation.
This is why Westchester is expanding the outdoor spaces designed for older students too. Construction on an additional recreational space with various sport surfaces is underway near the Rives Hall courtyard.
Mens Sana in Corpore Sano: A Sound Mind in a Sound Body
Westchester’s recognition of the connection between body and mind dates to the school’s founding, when the Latin motto “Mens Sana in Corpore Sano” was adopted. Both a sound mind and sound body are needed to pursue personal excellence. By continuing to emphasize play and movement throughout the school day, Westchester is helping students enhance their readiness for advanced academics and their development of social-emotional health and wellness.
