ABSTRACT
Open play areas, combined with loose parts and adaptable equipment, will enable children's play to progress markedly in a variety of different solo or group sizes. The open play area if well sited and proportioned provides a vitally important hub and linkage flow of space to all parts of the playground. Clearly the open space always assists supervision, both viewing and pedestrian. The teacher can observe children's play and quickly move to support, guide or intervene if necessary. Pathways opens up spaces to create access and egress throughout the playground and in the process provide a vastly varied range of opportunities. A dominance of bicycles in a playground at all times of the day must be seen as an example of limited play planning and outdoor programming sadly this shows a limited perception of children's needs. The nature of physical play is directly related to the child's level of motor-control.
