Recess is learning in motion, not time off from education. Active play helps children recharge, practice social skills, and develop healthy habits that last well into adulthood. A well-designed playground offers opportunities for kids to move, explore, and grow in ways that textbooks can’t always capture, making playtime both fun and foundational.
When schools prioritize thoughtful play spaces, recess turns into a meaningful part of the school day. It transforms into an engaging environment where students can practice new skills, build confidence, and challenge themselves in a safe environment. Here are some essential features to include in school playgrounds that encourage active recess.
Climbing Structures for Strength and Confidence
Climbing is inherently fun for kids. But it’s also a great way to build muscle strength, coordination, and problem-solving skills. From traditional jungle gyms to modern climbing walls and net structures, these features challenge children physically and mentally. They learn to assess risks, make quick decisions, and celebrate small victories with every climb.
Climbing structures also give kids confidence. Reaching the top of a climbing net or scaling a wall provides a sense of accomplishment that carries into the classroom. With options for different age levels and skill ranges, climbing elements encourage kids to push their limits safely. Just be sure to choose reliable safety surfacing to protect kids from falls.
Slides for Energy and Excitement
Few things light up a child’s face faster than the word “slide.” Whether it’s tall and twisty, short and wide, or part of a larger structure, slides invite movement and laughter. They encourage kids to climb, take turns, and enjoy the thrill of motion in a safe way.
Slides also foster cooperation. Kids cheer each other on, make up games, and even practice patience while waiting their turn. By incorporating slides of varying heights and designs, your school can add plenty of adventure to recess. To accommodate more kids at once, consider side-by-side designs that allow kids to slide together.
Open Play Zones for Running and Games
Even though playground equipment gets the majority of the attention, you can’t ignore the importance of having a wide open space where kids can run, chase, and invent their own games. Open play areas encourage free play, imagination, and social interaction. Tag, soccer, and foursquare are just a few of the timeless games that thrive in these spaces.
These zones also make recess more inclusive. Not every child gravitates toward slides or swings, but a wide-open area allows them to join group activities at their own comfort level. This way, kids who prefer to walk around during recess or pick dandelions have a safe and engaging place to be!
Inclusive Equipment for Every Student
An active recess should be inclusive for every student. Thoughtful additions like wheelchair access, ground-level play panels, and adaptive play structures help ensure no one is left out.
When children of all abilities play side by side, they not only enjoy the playground but also learn powerful life lessons in empathy, cooperation, and acceptance. The friendships they form and the understanding they gain extend far beyond the playground, turning active recess into a true community builder.
Accessible Merry-Go-Rounds
Inclusive merry-go-rounds are a fantastic way to bring multiple students together. Unlike traditional models, these designs are built with ground-level entry and space for wheelchairs, so children of all abilities can hop on and enjoy the ride.
With supportive handholds and smooth, easy-to-control spinning, everyone can join the fun, whether they’re pushing, riding, or cheering from the side. Beyond the thrill, inclusive merry-go-rounds teach teamwork and cooperation as kids work together to get it moving. This equipment is a true centerpiece of inclusion, ensuring that no child feels left out of the fun.
Swings for Movement and Joy
While some schools have safety concerns about swings, many still choose to include them on their playgrounds—and for good reason. Swings have been a favorite for generations, offering kids the chance to experience motion in a unique and calming way. Or, as many kids like to say, “I feel like I’m flying!”
Beyond the joy factor, swinging provides real developmental benefits. It helps strengthen core muscles, improves balance and coordination, and even offers valuable sensory input for children who need extra movement during the school day.
Adding a variety of swing types, such as belt swings, tire swings, and inclusive swings, ensures every student gets in on the fun. The back-and-forth rhythm creates a joyful escape while still promoting physical development and coordination.
Designing Playgrounds That Inspire Movement
The best school playgrounds are catalysts for active, healthy, and inclusive recess. By incorporating climbing structures, swings, slides, open play zones, and inclusive equipment, schools create environments where every student has the chance to move, connect, and thrive.At Cunningham Recreation, we believe playgrounds are powerful tools for learning and growth. Our team works with schools and communities to design play spaces that encourage activity and foster imagination. Because when recess is active, kids return to the classroom energized, focused, and ready to learn. To explore our options for school playgrounds, contact us today at 800-438-2780 or fill out our contact form.
