In 2015, the idea of creating a nature playground in Brandon Park was taken to the city of Williamsport with the goal of bringing children from all neighborhoods a safe and organic play space that enabled healthy development, creativity, collaboration, and sparked an overall sense of wonder. Four years later, phase 1 was completed in the fall of 2019. It is with great excitement that we will be able to celebrate the new nature playground this September!
Nature playgrounds consist of natural elements- sticks, logs, rocks, native plants, water- which allow children to imagine and create their own environment. Open-ended, child-led play is encouraged in these spaces. Frequent nature contact has been shown to boost the cognitive, creative, physical, social, and emotional development of children, and support resilience, problem-solving, self-motivated learning, and lifelong stewardship and conservation.
Nature playgrounds are popping up all over the US and we are fortunate to have one right here in the center of our city, within walking distance of many neighborhoods and schools. The hope and dream is that this playground, and all of Brandon Park, will be a destination for families, schools, and community groups to gather, explore, and play where curiosity and exploration are nurtured in all who encounter it.
We hope that you will join us on September 18th from 12-2 PM for the celebration of the new nature playground! The time includes open-ended play in the playground, nature-based activities with Wildlings Forest School and Tinkergarten, and a tour of the edible food forest with a Lycoming County Master Gardener.
