In this blog post, we look a little deeper into the subject of playground line marking and try to find out if it really is an effective way to keep children active and to help with their overall well-being.

What are playground markings?

Simply put, playground markings are visually stimulating designs, patterns, and games painted onto playground surfaces. Designs can include hopscotch, mazes, numbers, alphabet letters and more. Each of these playground line-marking designs is created to form an engaging environment which inspires children’s imaginations, encourages active play, and entices the more reluctant children to join in.

How playground markings encourage and improve physical activity

High-quality playground markings of various designs and colours, installed by a professional line marking expert, encourage physical activity in children in several effective ways, which include:

  • Attracting attention

    Vibrant and colourful playground markings are extremely effective in catching children’s attention, and arousing their curiosity and interest, which in turn motivates them to engage with the markings in a physical manner.

  • Creating active play opportunities

    Playground markings offer a wide range of games and activities that require running, jumping, hopping and skipping, all of which provide cardiovascular benefits, as well as benefits to balance, coordination, and motor skills.

  • Encouraging inclusive play

    Playground markings can be specially designed to encourage inclusive play, helping children of all abilities get active. Also, by incorporating games that don’t discriminate on physical abilities, playgrounds become much friendlier places.

  • Promoting social interaction

    Many playground marking layouts are designed to be used in groups, which helps promote better social interaction and teamwork among children, a benefit which can enhance overall well-being, and significantly increase physical play.

  • Encouraging imaginative play

    Playground markings will often feature creative designs that act as a sort of canvas for more imaginative play, where children can easily invent games, stories and scenarios, all of which encourage physical activity.

How playground markings help schools and communities

  • Increased physical activity

    Schools that install professional playground markings tend to see a sharp rise in physical activity levels among pupils, due to the fact the playground becomes a more interactive environment that pupils want to investigate and make use of.

  • Better academic performance

    Some studies have shown (although results aren’t conclusive) that increased physical activity positively affects cognitive function. Therefore, by encouraging children to play through playground markings, focus and concentration may increase.

  • Health benefits

    There’s no doubt that regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy body weight and overall fitness. With the help of playground markings, schools and communities can help combat childhood obesity, and other health issues.

  • Fewer behavioural issues

    Active play through the use of playground markings and other methods, may help children to release excess energy, therefore leading to the reduced likelihood of disruptive behaviour in the classroom.

Looking for a playground painting company?

If you’re looking for a playground line marking company to create playground markings in your playground, contact Newns Markings, we are line marking experts for playgrounds, roads, car parks and warehouses.