A Vision for Latham Park

Our design proposes a sheltered area for the youngest children contains sand for digging, low-embedded tree stumps for balancing, and logs to crawl through. A sloping section nearby provides the perfect place for a slide embedded in the hillside as well as seating areas for parents and caregivers gather to chat and keep an eye on the little ones.
 For the older kids who need more independent play, there is a shallow rock-lined stream
bed that they can fill with water by working a hand pump. They can build dams and
small falls and float “Pooh sticks” under the low bridge. And when they tire of keeping
their stream filled, the water will seep into the ground until the next time.














Multi-leveled landscaping creates small hills that, combined with the expansive field,
invite running, rolling and pretend play for all ages. Natural objects, like shells, stones
and sticks gathered from the beach and logs and embedded boulders, are the toys. Trees
and shrubs minimize the effects of the prevailing winds and create more places for play.
As we continue our discussion about children’s play, it is important to remind ourselves
that manufactured play ground equipment was designed mimic the climbing, balancing,
and coordination skills that children have developed in nature throughout history. Why
not simply give them the real thing?

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