Adventure play helps kids develop, teaches them to take risks

We were pleased to see The New York Times International Weekly article “At an Adventure Playground, the Danger Is Part of the Fun” (June 11), about adventure playgrounds in New York City, carried in TODAY.

Chapter Zero Singapore has been working hard to promote adventure play and playwork here because we believe that all children must be allowed to take age-appropriate risks. This is the way they learn to navigate this world.

Giving them an opportunity to experience a bit of danger is not only healthy but necessary for their development. In modern times, children are often too sheltered and do not spend enough time outdoors, especially in Singapore.

Taking risks such as climbing trees and falling down is a normal part of childhood, and parental restrictions can have repercussions on building resilience and self-confidence.

Although there are no true adventure playgrounds here, we are hoping to help create more such opportunities for children by introducing pop-up playgrounds in the months to come.

ABOUT: Chapter Zero Singapore is a social enterprise advocating free play.