subject: Traditional playground equipment is being brought into the 21st century [print this page] Traditional playground equipment is being brought into the 21st century
Traditional playground equipment is being brought into the 21st century with playground manufacturers bringing computer games to the outdoors, by giving them an almost science-fiction style makeover, to provide kids of the video game generation with a much needed breath of fresh air.
This ground breaking and ingenious makeover uses high tech light and quirky space age sounds to lure youngsters and teenagers alike away from their indoor computer based lifestyles, and challenge them to take part in agility testing games that encourage high physical exercise keeping them mentally challenged and physically active whilst enjoying the fresh air. It brings a new dimension to the playground, providing hours of fun and imaginative exercise.
Symmetrically structured with climbing ropes within a spider like climbing frame resembling a giant arachnid, with flashing lights and sounds it even talks to you. Different electronic games can be set up and played by teams or single users competing against each other, bringing an element of competition to the playgrounds and making each playground experience different, satisfying the most discerning of today's most demanding group of youngsters.
These new electronic playgrounds offer dynamic, interactive and affordable electronic play that will satisfy the most demanding group of youngsters. But it's not just for kids the whole family can join in and benefit from the interactive, social fun and exercise leaving their heartbeats racing after a game or two.
A recent study showed that obesity in teenagers can have the same risks as heavy smoking, getting teenagers outdoors and active has never been more important or difficult. These electronic playgrounds along with other teenage focused facilities, such as shelters to simply hangout or outdoor gym equipment can all help to get a generation of kids once more towards the fresh air and healthy outdoor pursuits and of that sofa.
On National Play Day, in August Wicksteed tested out its high-tech playground equipment on families at Broadfield Park, in Rochdale. There where up to 40 kids clambering on the unit at one time and all agreed that the futuristic LED satellites', coloured lights and electronic "voice" was much more fun than staring at computer games indoors.
