Playground Obstacle Course

July 19, 2012
Playground Obstacle Course

One of the hardest things about not having our own facility, is not being able to predict what type of environment or equipment will be available to us at any given time. Due to this, we have learned to be incredibly creative and adaptable to any situation. We use whatever is around at the time, and the best example of this, is our Playground Obstacle Courses....they have become a weekly staple, that shaped out of losing our field at the last minute! We utilize the slides, the monkey bars, the cross walks, everything is open to interpretation and is only limited by our imaginations. The kids LOVE it. They get to play on the playground, but in a controlled and strategic atmosphere. They have no idea we are working on: hand eye coordination, "hand over hand" skills, sequencing, listening and following multi-step directions, bi-lateral movement, upper body strength, and so much more. We can be on the same playground every day, and change the obstacle course a million different ways. The kids get to cheer each other on as they watch their friends take turns and successfully complete the course. They attempt new things that seem impossible, like climbing UP the slide, without going down on their hands and knees, and experience a sense of pride when they do accomplish each stage of the course. Many times, they turn to the staff or call out to their friends "I DID IT" with such a look of happiness and satisfaction, it touches your heart each time. We can't help but feel proud when our campers feel this sense of accomplishment and want to share it with someone else.