by HILARY CRAIG
Lexington toddlers will soon have a new play area complete with everything but plastic equipment.
The Boxerwood Education Association is building an innovative play trail where children can explore mother nature free of worry.
"This is a wonderful, nice, safe place to be that's very close to town," said Boxerwood Garden Steward Karen Bailey (KB). "It would be an easy opportunity, for just an hour or two, to be with your toddlers outdoors, safe from traffic."
The play trail was inspired by several studies and books that argue that children are spending less and less time outdoors. Many are worried that computer games, television, and structured activities are keeping kids away from nature. Bailey believes that children who spend time playing outdoors reap the benefits well into the future.
"All of us know that if we've had a life of growing up being able to play outdoors, we have a calmer attitude toward life in general." she said.
Bailey is not alone in her opinion. Parents of preschoolers in the Lexington community felt that the preschool programs in the area were lacking in opportunities for outdoor play. These parents approached Boxerwood Gardens about starting the play trail. They even offered to fund it. The play trail is funded by the Dale Waller Early Childhood in Nature Program.
With direction and funds, the play trail is on its way to creating a paradise for children and their parents. The trail will include a flowing stream, tunnel of willow trees, a quarry, and even a miniature House Mountain. Boxerwood also has a lodge for parents to rest. Of course all of this is in addition to the 15 acres of trails already created.
The workers are enthusiastic about different events available for children and the opportunities that the play trail will provide.
"Our hope is making places where children can engage in nature in ways that other parks don't allow," said Bailey. "There are a lot of plastic items to play on, but you won't find those here."
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Karen Bailey (KB) talks about the benefits of the play trail. |
Produced by Washington and Lee journalism students.
Lead supervisor: Prof. Claudette Artwick
Reporting supervisors:
Technical supervisor: Michael Todd