A SAFE, child-friendly environment not only helps to positively mold young minds, but it exposes children to life-altering events and good moral values.

The recent opening of the Children’s Play Park close to the Carifesta entrance of the National Park, has opened the door to a world of possibilities and will expose children of all ages to a kind of playtime that is more modern and enriching.
Research shows that there is a strong correlation between success and playful activities particularly in public green spaces. Parents being well aware of this, are ensuring that their children utilise these play spaces as often as possible.

The play park is the brainchild of Guyana’s First Lady, Her Excellency Arya Ali and falls under her National Beautification Project through which she has been doing a lot of good by transforming spaces, making them more family-oriented and child-friendly.

Like the Kingston Seawall Esplanade, the play park is anticipated to become a zone of relaxation, fun and laugher particularly on weekends and holidays.
Already, the response has been overwhelming as the brightly coloured play equipment, games boards and Guyana’s first splash pad attract a sizeable gathering every afternoon.
Clearly, people welcome and appreciate the idea of these type of play spaces.

There is well documented research that points to long-term benefits of outdoor play parks. Some of the positives include meeting other children of different races, ethnicities and religious backgrounds, good health and well-being, boost in problem-solving and the development of a range of skills such as co-operation and creativity.

In this space, children are allowed to function and explore their surroundings without limitations and hindrances. They engage in unstructured spontaneous play and can freely express themselves.
Play experts and other qualified personnel attest to the inclusive nature of play and the need for play spaces to reflect this. It is a good environment to learn empathy and to promote love and unity.
Mrs. Ali’s focus on creating these kinds of enriching environments across the country, is no accident.

It was a well-researched initiative that had some grounding in emphasising the importance of bringing together as many persons as possible, reflecting diversity, equity and inclusively.

Dr. Stuart Brown, the founder of the National Institute for Play, a California-based not-for-profit organisation, has said that making play a part of our lives and remembering what it is, are probably the most important factors in being a fulfilled human being.
Outdoor play is important to sustaining social relationships, promoting good health and being a creative, innovative person. The Children’s Play Park, the Kingston Seawall Esplanade and all the other green spaces that have been transformed to bring Guyanese together, must be applauded and appreciated as it is allowing young ones to develop good moral values and are transforming many lives.