This post was sponsored by Landscape Structures as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.
The best part of summer is the ability to get outside, go somewhere near and spend time exploring. When we partnered with Landscape Structures again, I knew that we wouldn’t be heading somewhere we’ve played a hundred times already but someplace new!
We had a day of fun semi-planned out but needed a way for the kids to burn off some energy and the playground at Summit Park in Blue Ash, Ohio is the PERFECT place to climb!
When we got there, they were having a food truck rally so I think it was meant to be. The playground was the busiest place of all though, with kids of all ages climbing! The equipment was this huge climbing apparatus and just begging for you to imagine you’re in the jungle or climbing a mountain. Talk about a great way to create your own world and use your imagination.
When we explore a new playground, I just let the kids go and do what they want (within reason, obviously). I might encourage them to try something (like a glider or a swing), but I don’t try to sway them in one direction or another or force them to do anything. If there’s a line for an activity, they know to wait politely and be respectful. It helps them learn social skills and quite frankly, they are old enough to not need mom and dad right there guiding them along.
We give them freedom to explore and the opportunity to meet other kids their age and socialize. Yes, Blue Ash is quite a drive from our house and the chance of us ever playing with those same children again is incredibly slim, but for an hour or two, they are connected and playing and learning and growing. As a mom, I couldn’t ask for more.
What I love most about Landscape Structures playground equipment is that they create equipment that children of all ages and abilities can utilize. We have seen some amazing pieces that are great for those with physical handicaps, and it warms my heart to know that every child has the ability to play and have fun. I’d love to keep a list of all of the Landscape Structures playground near us so we can be sure to support them and show our support for inclusion.