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Involving these local residents in design, implementation and maintenance processes is important to create community ownership of the schoolyard.Playgrounds are present in most neighbourhoods. When they are made publicly accessible, they become a new meeting place and play areas that contributes to the well-being of the entire neighbourhood community.
Own resources
Review what resources may already be available for example by mapping out which funds have been earmarked for major maintenance of the playground and the replacement of playground equipment.
Fundraising
Organise local school and community activities to raise money. This could include a bake sale, doing a charity run or washing cars.
Own resources
Review what resources may already be available for example by mapping out which funds have been earmarked for major maintenance of the playground and the replacement of playground equipment.
Fundraising
Organise local school and community activities to raise money. This could include a bake sale, doing a charity run or washing cars.
Applying for Grants
Applying for grants to transform the schoolyard may be possible. Reach out to relevant philanthropic organisations in your region.
Sponsorship
Businesses, local organisations or community groups could sponsor efforts in various ways such as financial help, volunteer work or the provision of goods.
Contributions in kind
You can also receive non-financial help. For example, by contacting a grower/garden centre and asking if they have trees and plants that they are no longer able to sell.
The best Green and Blue schoolyards include users and stakeholders in the playground development process. This creates support and a sense of community ownership for the space. It is important to work with a professional designer(s) that understand natural materials (such as wood, sand and soil) in order to develop a design that contributes to play and supports natural ecosystems.
Good green and blue schoolyard design satisfies the following criteria: A playing and learning environment with a natural character A rich play area with space for free play for children and room for nature to develop Design, construction and maintenance processes that happen as much as possible with participation from children, teachers and parents.
Green and blue schoolyards are an interesting solution for city authorities looking increase health outcomes in certain neighbourhoods. Having a nature-filled space close to home is known to provide compound benefits to residents including promoting active and healthier lifestyles, lowering stress levels and improving mental health.
Green and blue schoolyards provide teachers a space to hold outdoor lessons on a wide variety of nature-related topics. Learning outside has great benefits for children including increased concentration and helps schools to enrich their education curriculums
Here is some inspiration of different outdoor classes