Playground Structures
What would you like to see?
We’d love your input as we plan updating and enriching the equipment at the Owen Webster Memorial Playground! Though we’re envisioning a playground for all ages, one of our focuses is to create a space that’s inviting for Pre-K children and their caregivers, as they can’t use the school playground during the school day.
What’s on your wish list? What does your child (or grandchild, or…) enjoy doing? Swinging? Trying out a balance beam? Going on an imaginary adventure in a climbing net? Take a look at the photos of possibilities below for inspiration and email us your ideas. Are there structures you’d like to have that you don’t see here?
What are your favorite pieces of equipment at the current playground? Note that we may not be able to reuse some–or all–of these pieces, due to their age and no longer meeting best practices.
Boulder Slide Hill
Setting slides into a hill reduces falling risk. Boulders outside the steps provide additional climbing opportunities. Perhaps our existing steel slide can be repurposed and set into a constructed hill. A polished concrete slide may be another possibility.
Spinners
The net on this spinner provides safety for those sitting inside while also challenging those who want to climb up the outside. In addition, there is a crow’s nest at the upper level.
Boats
It’s Vinalhaven. We have to have a boat, but what should it look like and what should it be made of? The current wooden boats have rot and need to be replaced. Composite or metal would be more durable.
Spring Rider
Rocking motion is important to help stimulate a sense of balance. The back and forth motion helps regulate anxiety, develops muscle tone and establishes a sense of timing.
Stand-up Seesaw
Promotes collaborative play and teamwork through lots of ups and downs! Unique spring mechanism for controlled bounce.
Zip Line
Always a favorite! If mounted low to the ground, it adds the thrill of speed without too much risk.
Climbing Nets
This adventurous climbing structure echoes the island’s netting heritage.
Chalk Painting Area
It would be easy to incorporate an oval area open to all ages for creating chalk art drawings. A Little Free Library style freestanding box could be installed nearby to store chalk donations.
Log Jumble Climber
This climber is reminiscent of the timbers thrown upon our shores during every winter storm. All ages can enjoy this with the lowest logs within reach of younger children.
Balance Swing
This swing uses a large hawser line to create both a swing and a balancing challenge.
Tire Wall
If we can find a source of tires, this would be a low cost way to create a unique climbing structure.
Balance Bridge
A long pole surrounded by netting provides a safe but thrilling balancing challenge while crossing from one elevated platform or tower to another.
