Senda, Play Structure, pp.11-43

This reading consists of a variety definitions-- like a dictionary in prose. The subject is Play Structures, somewhat circularly described as “spatial structures used for play that form the overall play environment for children.” The author feels that the play environment in their native Japan, perhaps worldwide, is deteriorating. However, a noble study on the nature of Play Structures could lead to its glorious revival-- world peace and cookies for all.

There are four elements to the Play Environment: place, time, friends, and methods. Each of these is required in order for play to occur. Major problems in modern Japan toward play concern less play space, less time to play (with greater emphasis on schoolwork), and a combination of families producing less children and more isolated play options (TV, Video games, the typical culprits… rock and roll?) mean less friends. We’re safe on methods though, so it’s not all bad.

There are six types of play spaces. Nature Space is where children collect things and discover the inevitability of death. Open Space is ideal for organized group games. Street Space is ideal for anything requiring a lot of movement, like riding a bike. Anarchy Spaces, like junkyards, stimulate creativity as well as encourage war and fighting games. Hideout Space is just what it sounds like- think tree house. Lastly, Play Structure Space would be something like a playground where play equipment is found to attract and facilitate play.

There are three levels of play with play equipment. The first is functional, where the player is just learning the ropes. The second is technical where the player develops new ways to interact with the object. The last is social, where the equipment becomes a setting for or aspect of a larger form of play.

There are four types of play with play equipment: resting, challenging, vertiginous thrill-play, and imitative game play. Here are some detailed variants of such:

Different forms of play equipment encourage different methods of play. A swing encourages kids to try crazy stunts, where a jungle gym might inspire exploratory and group games. The author describes an ideal play structure as possessing a circulation factor (endlessly repeatable) with short cuts and a ‘thrill’ factor somewhere in there.