Parks & Recreation 2022 Playground Guide by Creative By Design

PLAYGROUND GUIDE 2022 N R PA .O RG

2022 PLAYGROUND GUIDE Improving Playground Experiences

SMART DESIGN EQUALS SMART PLAY

At Landscape Structures a lot of thought goes into designing our Smart Play® playstructures. Each must include a ton of activities, an equal ton of play value, yet offer a compact footprint. With a variety of innovative themes and concepts to choose from, these preconfigured playstructures are smart, whimsical, and easy to order. Easiest of all: Order a themed pair to entertain kids of all ages.

playlsi.com/smart-play

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Landscape Structures Inc. Smart designs. Brilliant play opportunities. Americans are eager to get outside after extra precautions over the past two years. And one thing we are sure of is that kids need outdoor play to keep themselves healthy — both physically and mentally. Making time for free, unstructured play is tricky in our 24/7 world, but research tells us that carving out time and space for outdoor play and activity is worth it. For children, playtime allows them to be in control and use their imaginations all while developing a range of important skills. So, as summer kicks off and families increase their time outside, it’s important to provide play solutions that help individuals of all ages and abilities stay active and healthy. Landscape Structures Inc., a Delano, Minnesota-based commercial playground equipment manufacturer, has introduced the newest addition to the Smart Play® family of adventure-inspiring designs — Summit™. Kids ages 5 to 12 will search for hidden animal tracks and camping gear as they trek across the lasercut climbing decks and threedimensional nets. Plus, the cool color gradation matches kids’ ascents. Summit allows communities with any type of terrain to bring the mountains to their play area. For airier playground designs meant to encourage kids’ imagination to soar, look no further than the

Smart Play Billows® for kids ages 5 to 12 and Smart Play Breeze™ for 2to 5-year-olds. Kids will flock to the lighthearted fun of clouds, kites and hot air balloons. Plus, bridges, climbers, slides and more deliver a rich sensory play experience. The combination of soft tones with brightly saturated hues take these imaginative playstructures to the next level. If more foliage-themed playstructures fit the environment better, Smart Play Tree Tops® for 5- to 12-year-olds and Smart Play Sprig™ for kids ages 2 to 5 deliver a freshas-spring design aesthetic. Kids get the sense of playing in the treetops as they navigate wiggly bridges, explore leafy pods and flower blossoms, roar down two slides and much more. Choose to install these playground structures individually or together. Either way, the result will be a forest of play. To round out the whimsical Smart

Play offering is the wondrously wavy Smart Play BeachComber®. Young imaginations are encouraged to go with the watery flow as they sail across the Tidal Wave Climber, wind their way down curvy slides and hop over the Pod Climber®. A cool color palette accentuates this flowy design that honors the graceful motion of ocean waves. These Smart Play playstructures fit in a compact space and all are packed with activities to help kids ages 2 to 12 develop key sensory, motor, cognitive and social skills. Learn more about this family of playstructures at playlsi.com/ smart-play, and contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on your playground design today.

playlsi.com 888.438.6574

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Contents

Company Profiles

Feature 10 Enhanced Play

Departments 18 Become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector 19 Become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector Instructor 20 Playground Resources

1 3 4 6 8 16 19 21 22 24 26 28

Landscape Structures Inc. Surface America Little Tikes Commercial Miracle Recreation Playworld Issuu Stern-Williams Products, LLC Cadron Creek Play Shade ‘n Net Shade Systems™ Public Restroom Company GameTime

2022

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

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PHOENIX, ARIZONA

SEPTEMBER 20-22, 2022 nrpa.org/Conference

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PlayBound TurfTop System Provides Natural Look and No Maintenance Surface America features the most complete line of playground surfacing systems, including poured, turf and tile options. The PlayBound™ TurfTop™ system is an especially perfect complement to a park setting or green environment due to its natural look. It also excels in safety and durability. The system requires zero maintenance and resists wear and tear from heavy foot traffic, so it perpetually looks like perfectly-groomed grass. And, because it allows for the free flow of water, TurfTop surfacing enables playgrounds to be used immediately following heavy rain, thus maximizing the amount of playtime. The primary function of any play-

ground surfacing, however, is to protect children when they fall during play. TurfTop is an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant grasslike surface with no dish-out areas around playground equipment. Unlike loose particles — such as rubber, mulch, sand and synthetic wood chips — which will disperse in critical areas of playgrounds, TurfTop playground surfacing is always “where you need it, when you need it.” Wheelchairs and walking aids can navigate the playground surface without difficulty, making playgrounds more accessible and inclusive for all levels of mobility. TurfTop surfacing has a very long-

GET THE LOOK OF NATURAL GRASS With No Maintenance & World-Class Toughness

life expectancy due to its extreme durability and world-class toughness. The system is constructed from the best quality materials — all made and manufactured in the United States — and is built with terrific craftsmanship by certified, proven coast-to-coast installation crews.

www.SurfaceAmerica.com 800.999.0555

PlayBound™ TurfTop™ is the perfect complement to any environment. • Looks like perfectlygroomed grass • Eliminates wear and tear from heavy foot traffic • Shock absorption, comfort-giving basemat • Wheelchairs/walking aids easily negotiate the surface • Extremely durable, longest life

The NATIONAL LEADER in playground surfacing systems.

SurfaceAmerica.com | 800-999-0555

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Little Tikes Commercial Creating Calm in the Grove

Playgrounds can inspire a child’s imagination, as well as help them develop crucial life skills. For some kids, though, playgrounds can quickly become overwhelming. Voices shout from the slide to the swings, and then there’s a burst of laughter on the climber, all while music playing from across the park has birds squawking out of rhythm. So many kids have run past that it’s impossible to keep track of who went where or what is happening up on the deck. For these moments of overstimulation, Little Tikes Commercial invites children and their parents or caretakers to step into a calming space called the Quiet Grove.

Little Tikes Commercial, together with Unlimited Play®, a nonprofit organization that creates universally accessible playgrounds, developed a retreat for kids who get overwhelmed by everything going on around them. When effectively placed away from the hustle and bustle of other playground equipment, this semi-enclosed structure fosters a welcoming environment to help soothe anyone in need. Then, when they’re ready, they can rejoin the fun on the playground. Inspired by the calming effects of nature, Quiet Grove features translucent bamboo panels, a leaf-patterned roof, and a wood-like bench to dampen the sights and sounds that may be impacting a loved one. Sensory activities located on either side offer further help to ease an upset mind. Push where the handprints indicate for therapeutic engagement in the arms, and slide objects along established patterns to help alleviate stress. Click the buttons for soft, repetitive responses, or give the fidget spinner a whirl to restore a point of focus. Though the Quiet Grove color palette can be customized, we recommend neutral or nature-inspired choices to encourage a calm atmosphere. At Little Tikes Commercial, we pride ourselves on creating unique, inclusive experiences that enable everyone to benefit from themed and imaginative play. Our consistency in producing thoughtful experiences has forged Little Tikes Commercial into a familiar name that parks, parents and caretakers know they can rely on. For details on how Quiet Grove can help make your park more inclusive, visit our website LittleTikesCommercial. com/Quiet-Grove.

littletikescommercial.com 800.325.8828

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A Soothing Space

Playgrounds are a busy place—legs swinging from ladders overhead, voices yelling through tunnels. There’s a lot going on that could cause a child to become overstimulated, and cease having fun. For these instances, Little Tikes Commercial collaborated with Unlimited Play® to create the Quiet Grove. Featuring sensory activities that offer therapeutic physical engagement and repetitive, stress relieving tasks, this nature-inspired structure offers a respite to anyone in need of a break from play. Kids can click, spin, push, move objects, or rest on the bench in order to relax and establish focus. That way, they can join back in on the fun when they’re ready.

To see our Quiet Grove video, scan the QR code with any smart device. To learn more visit, LittleTikesCommercial.com/Quiet-Grove

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Miracle Recreation Experience the Miracle of Play™

self-awareness. Sensory play is the phrase used to describe sensory learning that is incorporated into play.

Not All Playgrounds Are Created Equal

For nearly a century, we’ve created a legacy of “leaving it better than we found it.” This philosophy has inspired us to create one of our newest innovations, the Miracle Museum™ — a children’s museum experience that gives kids the chance to engage in fantastical sensory events. Children are diverse in their interests and their physical and intellectual abilities. Since children have different interests and abilities, play products must be universally designed, meaning the play equipment is accessible to and usable by all people to the greatest extent possible, so that everyone can have a similar play experience. Children benefit from play, especially sensory play. Increased self-esteem, improved collaboration skills, enhanced critical thinking skills and a strengthened immune system are just some of the high-level benefits children gain by playing. While all unstructured play is valuable for children, sensory play significantly impacts the way a child develops — specifically cognitive development of fine motor skills, language development, relaxation and

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While any playground can provide children with certain sensory experiences, a genuinely sensory-friendly playground, such as the Miracle Museum, offers a variety of equipment designed to stimulate each of the five senses, in addition to the sense of balance and the ability to judge positioning in space. Children’s museums are recognized for their sensory experiences and for being places to explore with a family member or friend. The experience encourages expressive and social play — make music, push, pull, spin and feel. Do it all with a friend or explore on your own. Miracle Museum takes the benefits of the children’s museum experience and enables you to incorporate it into a park, giving you the additional sensory benefit of being outdoors. It also allows you to provide a sensoryrich, universally designed play and learning experience for your community.

Miracle Museum Collection Most Miracle Museum products do not require safety surfacing, so they can convert under-utilized spaces into sensory-rich play areas, such as old basketball or tennis courts. They can even be installed indoors in your community room or fitness center. Since 1927, Miracle Recreation has brought innovation to parks and communities around the globe. Let us help you bring the Miracle of Play to your park today!

miracle-recreation.com 888.458.2752

Miracle ™ Museum

Sensory Meets Science Explore the Museum today! Scan the QR code to watch the Miracle Museum video, then visit our website for more details, including specifications. Miracle-Recreation.com/Museum

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Playworld

Leveling Up the Playground Venture with us to Quito, Ecuador. The capital city nestled among the Andes Mountains is the second highest of its kind and the closest to the equator. Inspired by its geography, Playworld developed Quito. At a staggering height of 15.54 feet (4.74 meters), this unique three-level climber has room to spare for all the kids in your community.

Level One The ground-level begins a child’s journey in the climber. The space beneath the center offers shelter for friends plotting their next move, while a bell on the side adds potential to engage with children in the upper two levels. This level’s climbing features include the extended hand ropes opposite of the bell, as well as a climbing ramp with foot and hand holds that offer access to the rest of Quito’s interior. The transferable under seat with a ramp helps include anyone who may not be able to partake in the fun on the upper two levels. Kids will have to hold on tight though — the fun is just getting started.

Level Two This level of Quito serves as a structural equator. After reaching this level through the access ports, kids can step on varying rope patterns for greater navigational challenges or reach across the hand ropes to securely explore the outer edge. In this unstructured setting, kids can seize the opportunity to forge their own path, building their skills and confidence for the future. Since this level surrounds the core, they’ll have a decision to make — continue their journey upwards, see more of the core or head back down.

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Level Three The final level sits above the core. Perforated steel panels along the top and the triangular core roof at the bottom make this space well-suited for hanging out with friends or making new ones. Kids can finish off their climb to Quito’s summit with a ring of the bell or experience the view through Koda triangle windows. After having put their balance and proprioception to the test on the way up, they’ve earned the chance to celebrate.

The Core The core is suspended by three 22-millimeter steel core ropes and offers an enclosed space for kids to explore or socialize in. Perforated steel panels along with powder coated panels maintain a cozy atmosphere while allowing for interaction with kids outside the core. Stocked with a bell and Koda triangle windows, this area serves as the perfect hub for activity in Quito. With each playground, Playworld seeks out new ways for kids to build authentic connections, and leads the industry in innovative, expertly crafted designs. Quito culminates these values by providing every child the chance to engage in meaningful play; whether they stick to the ground or climb their way to the top, any child can partake in the fun while building upon the skills necessary to lead the communities of tomorrow. For more information about Quito, visit Playworld.com/ Quito.

playworld.com 800.233.8404

THE PEAK OF PLAY Far up on the Andes Mountains rests Ecuador’s capital, Quito. As the second highest capital in the world and the closest to the equator, this city has one of the most unique geographies of any community. Now, kids can imagine themselves taking on a mountain of their own through Quito, Playworld’s new climber. Like its namesake, Quito prides itself on its soaring height, freestanding at 15.54’ (4,74m) tall. Traveling companions can set up camp on the ground-level cozy space, discover the offerings of the core, or navigate to the summit using differing rope patterns. A bell waits to be rung on each of the three levels of play, while colorful, translucent windows accent the view from the second and third levels. Quito uses its one-of-a-kind design and quality construction to encourage kids to take on new challenges and build genuine bonds across their community. For more information about Quito, visit www.playworld.com/Quito

Enhanced

PLAY Improving children’s experiences at the playground through collaboration By Tina L. Stanton-Chapman, Ph.D., and D. Michael Malone, Ph.D.

WARIDSARA/ADOBESTOCK

lay is critical to children’s learning and development. It helps children build their confidence and develop many important skills, including cognition, language and social skills. Unstructured play, defined as play that isn’t organized by an adult, offers additional skill-building opportunities — such as time alone to explore an environment; time to develop peer relationships and to work on physical, language, social-emotional and cognitive skills; and the ability to just play as the child wants to play without having to follow an adult’s specific direction. The playground environment represents an unstructured setting that offers many play benefits for children.

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Play helps children build their confidence and develop many important skills, including cognition, language and social skills.

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Design Principles Playground managers are well-aware that playgrounds are an integral component to any community. Playgrounds provide caregivers a means to bond with their children. They create a place where parents can connect and interact with others. These spaces help form a sense of community within a neighborhood. When playground managers wish to design a community playground, there are several principles to keep in mind: The playground design should follow the principles of universal design. This means the playground is appropriate for all individuals regardless of age, gender, race/ ethnicity, culture and ability. Families with infants and toddlers — and grandparents or caregivers with disabilities who take children to the playground — will be able to participate in play with their children. The play value of the playground equipment. This principle is assessed by asking questions, such as: (a) How many children can play on each piece of play equipment at one time? (b) Can the play equipment be used in multiple ways (e.g., sliding, climbing)? and (c) Will children get easily bored with the play equipment? The playground map or location helps playground managers consider where to place the new play equipment. This also applies to the context of existing equipment, bathrooms, parking areas, water fountains and shade space (if trees with adequate shade are not available). Caregivers must feel that the playground is safe for their children. Playground managers should conduct a needs assessment with the local community to make sure the playground design connects with the local community. This applies to play equipment and inclusion needs. The design also reflects the community’s history and culture. By considering the higher needs of the community, playground managers can ensure that the playground design and selected play equipment are compatible with the local culture and customs. Multiple forms of knowledge are required in the design

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and development of playgrounds, as such development has multiple aspects, involves multiple individual and professional practices, and requires diverse discourse. Grasping the full complexity of communities, schools, children and families is beyond the capacity of any single disciplinary perspective. Thus, the convergence of knowledge of multiple stakeholders, professionals representing different disciplines and community members is crucial for developing innovative playgrounds that allow children to develop, build their confidence, make friends and play as equals. The design and development of playgrounds requires: a. Knowledge of how children develop, socially interact with adults and other children, and interact and play with objects and their environment b. Knowledge of the creative engineering design process for outdoor play equipment c. Knowledge of environmental and aesthetic characteristics of the land set aside for the playground build d. Knowledge of the laws, rules and safety regulations of playground design and installation e. Knowledge of the community needs, responsibilities and resources These knowledge requirements involve engagement of groups of diverse professionals from different authorities and companies, as well as various stakeholders and communities. Every playground design involves a number of individuals, all of whom have specific involvement and tasks.

Interprofessional Collaborative Approach An interprofessional collaborative approach refers to the cooperation and discussion among professions and community members. No one member of the team is expected to have in-depth knowledge of all aspects of the playground. Collectively, the team presumably has the needed breadth and depth of knowledge to move forward. Interprofessional collaboration is indirectly fostered among the members of the group by arranging time for participants to meet face to face, guiding them through

the development of positive professional relationships, establishing procedures for working together, and teaching them about the intricacies of designing and building playgrounds (e.g., laws, procedural safeguards, building permits). The ability of these professionals to work together as a unified team is essential to creating a space promoting children’s peer relationships, social skills and emotional regulation, cognitive and motor skills, error and risk reduction, and equipment choice supporting children of all abilities. Close interprofessional collaboration and specialization among playground managers, community leaders (e.g., mayors, trustees, board members), families in the community, child specialists (education, psychology), engineers, landscape architects, construction workers (e.g., playground equipment installers), and other professionals who may provide needed input (e.g., occupational therapists, physical therapists, medical doctors) are necessary given the complexity of designing and building a quality playground. The consequences of not utilizing a collaborative approach include separate goals as opposed to shared goals, isolated decision making, less-effective coordination and communication, and overall confusion between community members.

Multiple forms of knowledge are required in the design and development of playgrounds, as such development has multiple aspects, involves multiple individual and professional practices, and requires diverse discourse.

Successful Interprofessional Collaborative Partnerships The journey toward successful interpersonal collaborative partnerships involves multiple factors. The first factor is commitment from all team members. Team members are available, attend meetings, are consistent with the feedback and suggestions offered, and go above and beyond what is expected of them. Commitment also may take the form of monetary donations and the amount of effort an individual does within the group. The success of the interprofessional collaboration is dependent on the level of commitment each of its team members contribute to the group. The second factor is communication. Team members have open and honest conversations in a medium that is comfortable with all individuals. Team members also must

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Playground managers should keep in mind that interprofessional collaboration takes time.

acknowledge that each profession has its own way of communicating, its own vocabulary, and acronyms that will not be understood by other team members. A shared terminology handbook can be created, so that all team members can learn the different terms. This creates a shared language between the team members of different professions, reduces communication barriers, and creates more effective communication between the parties. An example is the acronym “ADA” (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990). For playground equipment installers, playground managers, families who have a child with a disability and child specialists, ADA is a meaningful acronym. For the remaining team members, ADA is a Civil Rights law that must be written out, defined and explained, so all team members know what is meant when someone brings up ADA during a meeting. The third factor is strong leadership from key decisionmakers. Once an interprofessional team is formed for a playground project, those individuals, who will be making decisions throughout the project, must step up and take leadership roles. Typical decision-makers on a playground project include the playground manager, commu-

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nity leaders (e.g., mayor, trustees, board members), select members of the community, child specialists, landscape architects and engineers. Roles and responsibilities these individuals must assume include arranging, planning and holding meetings; taking meeting minutes; developing and maintaining a budget; obtaining all necessary construction permits, contracts, agreements, work orders, cost estimates, construction schedules, bidding documents and drawings; and needs assessments. These individuals must assume the needed responsibilities, so all required tasks are completed in a timely manner. The fourth factor is understanding the culture of each agency. Individual team members must make a conscious effort to learn the attitudes, policies and procedures of each representing discipline within the team. This is best described as cultural competence. Cultural competence allows team members to successfully interact and communicate with people from different professions. With cultural competence, the team — when designing and creating and building a playground — can create more

ideas, increase their creativity, be more willing to hear the viewpoints of others, and be open to more ideas. The fifth factor is preplanning. Preplanning is when each individual team member considers the skills they bring to the team, so they can communicate this expertise when it is needed. When the team meets as a group, preplanning is a time when a clear vision of the playground design and build is developed. This clear vision then allows the group to develop its identity, team roles and responsibilities, and areas of need. The sixth factor is providing adequate resources. Team leaders not only serve the interprofessional team that they lead, but also the community where the future playground will be built. For this reason, it is important that both groups feel that team leaders hear them when they make requests for resources that will help them achieve their goals. The request for additional resources or help is the prime opportunity for compassionate leadership. Ensure team members and community members know it is acceptable to speak up when adequate resources are not available and provide the proper channels to express concerns. When tough decisions must be made (e.g., not enough money to purchase specific play equipment), team leaders should have appropriate conversations about the decision-making process, explain the rationale behind the decisions, and emphasize how allocated resources support the overall project goals and priorities. The seventh factor is minimizing “turf” issues. Given the number of decision-makers on the interprofessional team, there is potential for a turf war. Turf wars occur because situations involve egos, emotions and an individual’s sense of identity. A playground design and build must be approached like a staircase with each step providing a series of choices with different functions and parts. For example, one step of the staircase may be playground surfacing. Another step may be construction permits. Each decision-maker has different areas of expertise. Therefore, each step of the playground design and build should be assigned to the individual with the closest alignment of expertise (e.g., construction/playground equipment install-

er decision-maker in charge of construction permits; child specialist decision-maker in charge of playground equipment selection). If a step does not have a logical choice for a decision-maker, then negotiations should take place between decision-makers with unassigned tasks. For example, if the steps explore shade structures and analyze needs assessment data were unassigned tasks, the decisionmakers who did not have a task responsibility would negotiate which task they would prefer to do. If all decisionmakers were assigned a task and there are tasks that need to be assigned to someone, then a few decision-makers will be asked to take on an additional task.

Time, Patience, Perseverance These guiding factors create an environment in which interprofessional collaboration can thrive. Playground managers should keep in mind that interprofessional collaboration takes time. When new teams form, they must remember that collaboration takes time, patience and perseverance, which is supported by their leadership and their ability to think long term. They also must realize that the relationships that team members form do matter. It is critical that playground managers work diligently to build the relationships between the team members. Hosting social events at the onset of the team creation will help to establish stronger bonds between members. They must then encourage “pockets” of team members to organize and meet on their own time once bonds begin to form. Reinforcing these bonds whenever possible is crucial for interprofessional collaboration success. When playground managers bring the right skills to the table, adopt the right mindset and incorporate the appropriate interprofessional collaborative factors into the mix, the magic of a quality playground design and build can happen. Tina L. Stanton-Chapman, Ph.D., is a Professor of Early Childhood Education and Human Development at University of Cincinnati. D. Michael Malone, Ph.D., is a Professor of Early Childhood Education and Human Development at University of Cincinnati.

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Save on printing costs — creating seasonal programs can be expensive, and we’re here to help! By going digital with Issuu, not only are you saving time and effort, but also you’re saving money. “We typically do four brochures per year, sent out to 12,000 households. By going fully digital with Issuu, we save around $55,000 every year in printing costs,” says Thomas Romano, community program coordinator for Town of Lexington (Massachusetts) Recreation.

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Become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector Reasons to Become a CPSI By becoming a CPSI, you will learn from expert instructors, network with other professionals from the field, protect children from injury due to playground hazards and reduce your agency’s liability. Additionally, becoming a CPSI will help you to take your career to the next level.

Taking the CPSI Exam

NRPA’s Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) program provides the most comprehensive training on playground safety.

NRPA’s Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) program is the industry’s leading certification program in playground safety. The CPSI program provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date training on playground safety issues, including hazard identification, equipment specifications, surfacing requirements and risk management methods.

To prepare for the exam, candidates are encouraged to participate in the blended learning course — a combination of the CPSI Online Learning Course and live training sessions conducted virtually by CPSI instructors — or take the CPSI online prep course (nrpa.org/CPSI). The CPSI exam is a computer-based exam that is available at more than 200 testing centers across the United States and internationally. The exam contains 100 questions — 95 scored and five unscored pre-test questions.

CPSI Courses If you are interested in becoming a CPSI, register to attend one of the following courses taking place during summer of 2022.

Date

Host Location

Virtual or In Person

May 23-25

Highland Village, Texas

In Person

June 1-3

Hillsboro, Oregon

In Person

June 6-8

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

In Person

June 8-10

Commerce City, Colorado

In Person

June 10

Michigan

Virtual

June 15-17

Phoenix, Arizona

In Person

June 15-17

Hobbs, New Mexico

In Person

June 28-30

Lakewood, California

In Person

July 12-14

Raleigh, North Carolina

In Person

July 20

California

Virtual

July 26-28

Davie, Florida

In Person

Additional courses are added to the course calendar throughout the year. To see the most up-to-date list of 2022 course dates and locations, visit nrpa.org/CPSI. 18

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Stern-Williams Products, LLC

Become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector Instructor Take the next step in your career and share your extensive knowledge of playground safety by becoming a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) instructor. Not only is it a great addition to your professional growth, but also it is an opportunity to travel and network with other professionals who share your passion for playground safety. Qualifications for becoming a CPSI instructor include five years of full-time experience in playground safety, park operations and management, risk management, safety inspection and management, or related fields; two years of experience teaching adult education, preferably playground safety and management, playground design and engineering, park operations and management, risk management, or comparable areas; and public presentation skills. Applicants must have successfully passed the CPSI exam and maintain a current CPSI certification for a minimum of six years, as well as be a current member of NRPA. To learn more, visit nrpa.org/ CPSI or contact Lamar Lee, NRPA’s playground safety manager, at llee@nrpa.org.

Stern-Williams Products, LLC, is a manufacturer of terrazzo service sinks, shower floors and cabinet packages, and a complete line of drinking fountains. We opened for business in 1962, beginning only with a few terrazzo mop sink models, which we have gradually expanded to include one of the most complete lines of precast plumbing fixtures. In addition, we specialize in building custom designs and welcome the opportunity to be of service in this area. A natural extension of our work with terrazzo and concrete was terrazzo wall-hung drinking fountains and aggregate pedestal fountains. We have continued to develop this line and are now proud to present stainless-steel and metal fountains in several designs as well. sternwilliams.com 800.323.2359

Model 5700

Barrier-Free Drinking Fountain

From the dog days of summer to long, cold winters, SternWilliams drinking fountains and bottle fillers stand up to the toughest conditions. • • •

Vandal-resistant steel guard Powder-coated finish in 11 colors Optional pet bowl, bottle fillers, and a wide variety of options

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Parks & Recreation

Playground Resources Whether you are a park and recreation professional, caregiver or parent, NRPA provides resources that will help you to keep the children of your community safe when exploring their local playgrounds.

Playground Inspection Kits Playground Inspection Kits include the equipment necessary to check for head and neck entrapment hazards, as well as protrusion and entanglement hazards, on playgrounds. To learn more, visit nrpa.org/PlaygroundSafety.

The Daily Dozen

Playground Inspection Kits include the equipment necessary to check for head and neck entrapment hazards, as well as protrusion and entanglement hazards, on playgrounds.

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The Daily Dozen Playground Safety Checklist is a 12-point checklist designed for parents and caregivers to help identify safety hazards within play spaces to ensure children have safe places to learn and explore. The checklist provides safety information on the following: 1. Proper surfacing – Maintaining proper surfacing is one of the most important factors in reducing the likelihood of playground injuries. 2. Accessibility – Equipment selection and location, along with the type of protective surfacing, are key componenets to ensuring opportunities for children with disabilities to play on the playground. 3. Adequate supervision – Play areas should be designed so it is easy for a parent or caregiver to observe the children at play. 4. Age-appropriate equipment – It is important to make sure the equipment in the playground setting is appropriate for the age of the intended user. 5. Proper equipment – There is some playground equipment that is not recommended for use on public playgrounds. 6. Adequate-use zones – These zones are the area around playground equipment onto which a child may fall and must have proper surfacing.

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Cadron Creek Play Discover Water Play 7.

Protrusion and entanglement hazards – A protrusion hazard is a component or piece of hardware that is capable of impaling or cutting a child, and some also are capable of catching strings or clothing. 8. Head and neck entrapment – All enclosed or partially enclosed openings must be checked for potential head or neck entrapments. 9. Trip hazards – Playgrounds with high use should be scanned daily for trip hazards. 10. Crush, shear and sharp edge hazards – Components on the playground should be checked for the potential of crush and shear injuries. 11. Proper maintenance – In order for playgrounds to remain safe, a program of systematic, preventive maintenance should be in place. 12. Certified inspections – A sound risk management plan should include having your playground inspected routinely by a Certified Playground Safety Inspector. To learn more about the Daily Dozen Playground Safety Checklist, visit tinyurl.com/2p882eep.

Add an element of fun, sensory play to your park or playground with a Playground Pump! These durable, stainless steel hand pumps simulate pumping water from a well. However, they are actually connected to a pressurized water line (e.g., city water). Kids will play for hours, learning social skills and exploring science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts. Our growing product line offers turnkey set-ups, like the Water Fall Table, or systems that can be integrated into current playground designs, like the Pump-N-Play System. Manufactured in the United States, Cadron Creek Play is proud to offer the highest-quality pumps on the market. This unique water feature will draw kids of all ages and abilities. It is the ultimate inclusive play feature and the talk of the playground! cadroncreekplay.com 888.403.7867

Other Recommended Resources • The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Public Playground Safety Handbook focuses on “playground-related injuries and mechanical mechanisms of injury” (tinyurl.com/34w5babs). • The American Society for Testing and Materials International’s (ASTM) F1487 Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment for Public Use provides safety standards for playground equipment and use zones to reduce life-threatening injuries (tinyurl.com/bd9xsbep). • The Americans with Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design provides accessibility standards (tinyurl.com/5e4rtpfx). • The International Playground Equipment Manufacturers Association is a nonprofit that provides a third-party certification program that verifies whether playgrounds meet ASTM standards (ipema.org). By utilizing these resources, we can work together to ensure our playgrounds are safe and accessible for all children to enjoy.

Cadron Creek By Bison Pumps

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Shade ‘n Net

In our rapidly changing world, it’s become increasingly more important to utilize outdoor spaces for a healthier lifestyle with open spaces for activities of leisure and sport. Parks, playgrounds and other outdoor areas have become instrumental safe havens for kids and adults seeking to enjoy life to its fullest. With society’s emphasis on more outdoor activities, it also raises the need for protection from the harmful effects of the sun and its ever-present ultraviolet (UV) rays. Unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause damage to the skin, eyes and immune system. It also can cause cancer. There are other

Parks & Recreation

contributing factors, such as heredity and environment, but sunburn and excessive UV light exposure damage the skin. This damage can lead to skin cancer or premature skin aging. One of the most popular ways to defend against over-exposure has been the emergence of fabric shade systems. For the past 26 years, Shade ‘n Net has been a pioneer in the shade industry, providing protection with our highly effective and attractive cable-tension structures and sails. With extreme spans between columns, fabric shades have been the go-to for park profession-

als, schools and any other entity that has visitors engaged in outdoor activities. With a wide range of applications (e.g., playgrounds, sport courts, pool decks, bleachers, etc.), Shade ‘n Net has assisted tens of thousands of satisfied clients in enhancing their athletic and play sites with a wide variety of aesthetically pleasing designs that come in dozens of different color options. Shade ‘n Net structures have proven to be an excellent long-term investment with multi-year warranties and engineer-designed systems

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that withstand the test of time with p ro f e s s i o n a l l y - m a n u f a c t u re d , maintenance-free structures. With Arizona as the starting point (our manufacturing plant is based in Phoenix), clients have come to know that the structures that we supply withstand the harshest of elements year after year. Also, they have the comfort of knowing that with the same original ownership, Shade ‘n Net always stands behind their product and honors their warranties. Gaining national recognition beyond Arizona, we’ve also had tremendous success supplying our systems throughout the country and even shipping systems as far away as Europe, Asia and Africa. Whether we’re covering your neighborhood playground equipment or helicopters for the U.S. Military, we always strive to provide the most effective, attractive protection!

shade-n-net.com 602.484.7911

Contract # 010721-GRN

™

OUTDOOR FITNESS...

'CUZ PARKS ARE FOR MOMS AND DADS TOO! Give parents an excellent way to fit in a workout while they keep an eye on the kids. Greenfields’ Professional Series features bi-directional pistons and Safe-Stop technology, eliminating the risk of recoil should young park visitors try out the equipment. With 20 units - including three for those in wheelchairs - the Professional Series provides parents and other caregivers a complete workout without compromising safety.

Equipped with

SafeStop

zer rec0 il

for enhanced safety

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Shade Systems

™

Trust the most capable fabric shade manufacturer

Shade Systems™ is the premier manufacturer of outdoor fabric shade products designed to protect people and property from the harmful effects of the sun’s dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays. Whether it’s for playgrounds, sports fields, pool decks or concession areas, a perfect solution for harmful sun exposure is a durable and attractive shade product from Shade Systems. Now in our 20th year, we design and manufacture all our products at our state-of-the-art fabrication plant in beautiful Ocala, Florida. At over 100,000 square feet, the Shade Systems plant is a completely vertically integrated, fully self-contained manufacturing facility where all operations and processes required to produce your shade structures are completed under one roof. Such focused

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attention to detail ensures complete quality control and American manufacturing efficiency. A perfect example of our leadership is our patented Turn-N-Slide™ easy canopy removal and reattachment system. At times imitated by our competitors — but never equaled — our time-tested Turn-N-Slide fastening system makes it easy for most anyone on your staff to quickly remove and reattach the canopy in the event of a severe storm or for the winter season. Shade Systems was the first to manufacture such a system, and our Turn-N-Slide is still the most-used fastening system with the longest, most successful track record. Likewise, our imaginative “Sail” products are the highest quality fabric tension structures on the market. Like our frame-supported shade products, Sails feature all stainless-steel cables and hardware and an easy-touse quick release system for fast removal of the canopies. Engineered to last and designed for beauty, Sails add a stunning skyline to your site while providing much-needed shade. With a nationwide network of dedicated sales representatives and installers, you can trust Shade Systems to help you create the perfect shade solutions for your particular site, including complete design, planning and installation services for a turnkey project that’s done on time and on budget. For all the above reasons, along with the most air-tight warranties on the market, Shade Systems is proud to be your first choice in quality shade products for public venues.

shadesystemsinc.com 800.609.6066

✓ CoolNet™ shade fabrics in your

✓ All stainless steel hardware and

✓ Our ingenious One-Point ‘Sail’

✓ Most comprehensive warranties

choice of 15 bright colors for up to 99% U.V. screening.

cables for maximum corrosion resistance and long life.

fastening system makes canopy removal a breeze for the winter or severe storm.

in the industry.

never had it so cool

Check these great Shade Systems advantages:

Shade

More specifiers choose Shade Systems™ ‘Sails’ designs to protect children on playgrounds from the sun’s dangerous U.V. rays.

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Parks & Recreation

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Public Restroom Company For over 20 years now, we’ve been designing, building and installing prefabricated restrooms and buildings for parks and public spaces. We thrive on delivering a turnkey product to our customers that is premier in both components and aesthetics. When it comes to parks and playgrounds, including a restroom as an amenity is a big plus and will always attract more park users. We go beyond building just restrooms and can create almost any modular building you may need. Our product line includes storage, concessions, showers, offices, transit stations, trash enclosures, scorekeeper booths and much more. Our extensive design library of code-compliant, standard floor plans can all be customized and added on to in order to create the multi-functional building you need. Public Restroom Company recently launched, Restroom Connect, a cloud-based software system that uses smart sensors that actively monitor the restroom interior to better understand usage, occupancy, air quality and track cleanings.

Parks & Recreation

Visit our website to learn more about this new technology. Our restrooms are designed to be low maintenance and come with proprietary water-resistant, non-porous concrete floors that create a “no smell” interior. To reduce maintenance fixes, we install vandal-resistant doors and fixtures and only the best components in the marketplace. This is why we offer a five-year warranty on parts and a 20-year structural warranty on all buildings. Our reputation is rooted in our buildings’ durability, quality components and the ability to offer any degree of customization you seek. Call today for a quote on your next project. publicrestroomcompany.com 888.888.2060

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The Latest Park and Recreation News and Trends

On the Go Available on iTunes and Google Play

openspaceradio.org The Official Podcast of NRPA

Advertiser Index BCI Burke Playgrounds........................................................... C4 Cadron Creek Play......................................................................21 GameTime...................................................................................C3 Greenfields Outdoor Fitness................................................... 23 Issuu Inc.........................................................................................17 Landscape Structures Inc....................................................... C2 Little Tikes Commercial............................................................. 5

Miracle Recreation....................................................................... 7 Playworld........................................................................................ 9 Public Restroom Company.....................................................26 Shade Systems...........................................................................25 Shade ‘n Net................................................................................22 Stern-Williams Products, LLC..................................................19 Surface America........................................................................... 3

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Parks & Recreation

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GameTime Inclusive Innovation

Our innovative approach to GTWave didn’t stop with accessibility. We also made advancements in the cabling materials that make up the climber with industry-leading 20mm WeaveTech® ropes. WeaveTech includes a flexible polyamide core surrounded by six SteelForce® ropes with the industry’s highest steel content. The cable system is encased in our ComfortGrip® synthetic polymer, which is softer and more durable than nylon. Media expert Tom Freston once said, “Innovation is taking two things that already exist and putting them together in a new way.” We think Freston makes a good point, and it’s the driving force behind many of GameTime’s inclusive innovations. For example, children love to climb. The late Dr. Joe Frost, known as the foremost authority on the benefits of play, wrote entire treatises on the importance of climbing play. Throughout his career, he taught how climbing enhances healthy childhood development, provides healthy risktaking, promotes decision-making skills and is a lot of fun! Frost protégé Tom Norquist has spent more than 25 years developing inclusive play products for GameTime. His work has transformed the industry and created new categories of playground products. Norquist looked at the leading playground trends and sought a way to make climbers more inclusive, specifically net climbers. The result was GTWave®.

Different by Design GTWave is an innovative, inclusive net climbing structure and the industry’s first net climber with an EveryBody Plays® transfer platform on one end. The transfer platform makes it possible for people to transfer to or from a mobility device. It attaches to a SureGrip® accessible path to a six-foot slide at the other end. In between and all around are fun and exciting ways for children to climb and explore the structure. By combining two things — net climbing and accessibility — GTWave enhances physical, social-emotional and cognitive skill development for everyone.

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Make a Big First Impression GTWave is a big deal for inclusive play, and it’s a huge playground net climber. It measures more than 30 feet long, 20 feet wide and 10 feet tall. When children see it, their first reaction is, “Whoa!”

Big Impact, But a Little Bit Smaller Communities love GTWave, but many asked for something that fits in tighter spaces. GTSplash® includes all the same fun and inclusive benefits as GTWave, including the EveryBody Plays transfer platform, SureGrip accessible route, and six-foot zip slide. At a 25 percent smaller size, GTSplash makes an inclusive splash in smaller spaces and at a smaller price.

Innovation Never Stops As communities seek new, fun and innovative ways to make play a part of everyone’s life, GameTime is working on the next great innovation. We continually put existing things together in new ways and develop whole new approaches to play. It’s who we are, and it’s been part of our mission to enrich childhood through play since 1929. gametime.com 800.235.2440

GTWave® The industry’s first inclusive playground net climber

GTWave combines the fun and excitement of a playground net climber with accessibility features like a transfer platform and accessible route to a 6-foot slide! It’s fun for everyone and the industry’s first inclusive playground net climber. gametime.com/gt-wave

Scan to watch a mom’s praise for GTWave

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Parks & Recreation

993

The Core of Play What is the Core of play? The hub of excitement? The center of energy? The crux of Play That Moves You? It’s Nucleus Core – the climbing, adventurous and fun epicenter of your new playspace. It’s the Core of play only from Burke.

Join Our Movement

urk

bciburke.com e.com/

Parks & Recreation 2022 Playground Guide

Articles inside

GameTime

Shade Systems™

Public Restroom Company

Shade ‘n Net

Become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector

Playworld

Playground Resources

Surface America

Little Tikes Commercial

Cadron Creek Play

Enhanced Play

Miracle Recreation