While we may only think of slides as simple play structures, it’s important to recognize that several developmental processes are happening at once when a child is sliding — spatial reasoning, self‑regulation, and managing excitement. Play-based activities that include sliding can improve balance, coordination, and motor development.
Our early literacy-inspired play spaces offer many opportunities for children to develop and practice their spatial awareness and development of body control.
Spatial Reasoning & Directionality
Through active play, like sliding down a slide, a child’s spatial awareness is explored and their understanding of directionality (up and down, left and right). Developing a better understanding of these concepts through active play can create the foundation for learning to read text across a page.
Managing Excitement & Self-Regulation
How does managing excitement through active play relate to literacy? Adapting to challenges requires self-control and persistence, and so strengthening these skills through active play contributes to laying the foundation for literacy and learning.
All play spaces were designed with a slide for children to enjoy. By engaging in active play, like sliding down a slide, children strengthen their bodies and minds, developing foundational skills necessary for reading and writing.
