The dangerous playgrounds of 1900s through vintage photographs

If it seems like today's kids have gotten "softer" than they did decades ago, it's probably because playgrounds have gotten softer, too. Thanks to state laws and personal injury lawyers, the landscape of the typical playground has changed greatly over the years, making it a safer and more "educationally interactive" environment.

On the other hand, maybe those rugged recreation areas of the past served as early life lessons that the world was a harsh and unforgiving place.

According to a New York Times article, some researchers question the value of safety-first playgrounds. Even if children suffer fewer physical injuries – and the evidence for this is debatable – critics say these playgrounds can stunt emotional development, leaving children with anxiety and fear. Which are ultimately worse than a broken bone.

"Children need to face risks and overcome fear in the playground," said Alain Sandsetter, professor of psychology at Queen Maud University in Norway. “I think the monkey bar and the long slide are great.

As playgrounds are becoming more and more boring, these are some of the features that can still give kids thrilling experience with height and high speed.

Sometimes, of course, their mastery fails, and falls are a common form of playground injury. But these rarely cause permanent harm physically or emotionally.

While some psychologists – and many parents – are concerned that a child who has fallen badly will develop a fear of heights, studies have shown the opposite pattern: a child who has suffered a fall before the age of 9. , less likely to have a fear of heights as a teen.

Norwegian University for Science and Technology's Dr. By gradually exposing themselves to more and more dangers on the playground, according to Sandsetter and a fellow psychologist, Leif Kenair, children are using the same habituation techniques developed by therapists to help adults overcome phobias. be able to help. ,

The idea of ​​the playground as a method to instill a sense of fair play and good manners in children originated in Germany where playgrounds were built in relation to schools. Humanists saw playgrounds as a solution to cramped quarters, poor air quality, and social isolation.

This new concept can keep children away from dangerous roads and help them develop their physical health, good habits, socialization skills and the joy of being a child.

The first playground in the United States was built in 1887 at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. In 1906, the Playground Association of America was formed to promote the ideas of playgrounds for communities, including profit, construction, layout and design, and conduct and activities. Happens on playgrounds.