Although funding can be a challenge when it comes to different school programs, sports equipment should be a priority. Athletic equipment is necessary for children and teens to develop healthy habits and an active lifestyle. You’ll quickly see the positive impact new equipment and new play structures can make.
On the playground
New play structures
Have the children at your school all but abandoned the equipment and play structures in the courtyard? Are the structures rusted and damaged? Are you worried they may be hazardous to play with? If you answered yes, then it’s time for an upgrade. Numerous companies manufacture and sell these kinds of structures and features. They can even be custom built to fit any budget, no matter how limited the space is.
Soccer field
Soccer is a popular sport among Canadian youth. With a little outdoor landscaping and nets for the gym, soccer can be played all year round. This might be all it takes to get children excited enough to start a team.
Small outdoor equipment
If the schoolyard doesn’t have enough space to accommodate large installations, you still have options. Smaller fitness structures like a pear-shaped ball, basketball hoops or a tetherball pole can also work wonders. Since space can be an issue, playground stencils and markings such as hopscotch are an extremely affordable way to encourage children to play.
For the gymnasium
Climbing wall
A climbing wall installation in the gym of your school will guarantee hours of fun! Climbing is a fun and physically demanding activity, which provides opportunities for challenge and accomplishment that have been proven to significantly increase self-confidence in young people. Successfully climbing a wall is gratifying, but it also develops other important skills such as improving upper arm and leg strength, enhancing problem solving skills, and promoting patience.
Training equipment
If the school doesn’t include a fitness room on the premises, there are many accessories teens can use to train. Equipment like stability balls, resistance elastics and free weights are inexpensive and provide effective results.
Other equipment
Outfit the playground and gym with sports and fitness equipment that will provide students with access to different games and physical activities. You can introduce circus arts, in-line skating and cross-country skiing. If the school doesn’t already have them, install bike racks to encourage young people to ride their bikes to school instead of taking the bus.
Any means possible to get kids moving and active is beneficial and will be appreciated. Incorporating students in the decision making process will motivate them to get involved, too, so ask them for their opinion — they usually have very good ideas!
