PLAYGROUNDS IN PARKS 



suggest, — in a sense advisory to tlie playground director. He will 

 find himself endowed somewhat with the prerogatives of a censor, for 

 an ill-considered design of playground may he urged hy liim as an 

 added reason for its disassociation from park areas. It usually develops 

 that the suggestions of the park designer are w'elcome and his services 

 are availed of to the full by those laying out the playgrounds both to 

 harmonise the playgrounds with the parks and to render the play- 

 grounds agreeable in aspect. 



DESIGN OF PLAYGROUNDS 



There is a large range of design possible in the development of 

 playgrounds, dependent upon the form and extent of the area avail- 

 able. It is appropriate that the playgrounds be given what is known 

 as formal design, meaning by that an arrangement in which the lines 

 are well radicated and positive. Such an arrangement is most eco- 

 nomical of space and suggests the idea of orderliness in the mind of 

 the child. A generous open space should be left at the centre for free 

 movement and general play, and such disposition of the remaining 

 area may 'be made as will meet the desire of the playground supervisor. 

 The apparatus had best be so arranged as to be under the observation 

 of the attendant at all times. Various game courts may be provided, 

 depending upon the area of the playground. The introduction of a 

 wading or swimming pool is usually considered desirable. The in- 

 clusion of gymnasium apparatus will depend upon the scojdc of the 

 individual playground and again be subject to the wishes and will of 

 the playground director. 



While a playground should not be confused with a park, there is no 

 doubt there is a close relationship betw^een them, for an isolated play- 

 gi'ound may be given a palpable park character without prejudicing 

 its purpose. An illustration of what may be done along this hue may 

 be seen in Willow Tree Alley playground in AVashington. This was 



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