The Adventure Begins

 My boys are enthralled with the Mercer Island Adventure Playground  They went on opening day and enjoyed being checked out  construction worker hard hats and toolbox.  They walked with pride and excitement to begin their projects- making an idea come to life with real tools.  

The first day they found a place to work that was on a hill.  It made all the measurements, sawing and hammering a bit difficult but nonetheless a bench and table were made.   Projects that were no where to be found just two days later- turned into something else.   I worried that they would feel frustrated to see their projects gone, but it just allowed them a clear slate for today.  

All around us kids and parents were busily working on projects.  I was amazed at the creative projects.  It was truly an adventure playground: kid made rides, forts and furniture.  As a parent I had to try to hold back my own concerns and fears and realize that the learning was greater than the risk.  The greatest challenge for me was the amount of boards I saw with nails sticking out of them.  Sometimes pointing straight up.  There were also many nails just laying on the ground.  There is a reason that you are not allowed in the fenced off area with sandals on: closed toed shoes only.  It is also why I am not yet allowing our backyard to become an adventure playground.  We like to go barefoot on occasion.  

I also realized that it took full concentration as a parent to make sure my kids knew basic sawing and hammering safety.  But, already by our second visit I was much more at ease.  

It is amazing that Mercer Island staffs such a great learning and play activity.  So far it seems that the staff is mostly new to the Adventure Playground concept themselves, but they were always present and are learning quickly.   When we were in need of assistance someone in a bright yellow vest was never hard to find.    They were always friendly and helpful.  It will be interesting to see how the playground progresses during the summer. 

If you are planning a trip- plan to make it a full afternoon.   The adventure playground is set with in a lovely park.  There is also a great trail nearby for hiking and exploring. 

For more on adventure playgrounds: 

Adventure Playgrounds
http://adventureplaygrounds.hampshire.edu/index.html

http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/adventureplayground/