New resource helps cities design nature-infused playspaces that support climate resilience, child well-being, and equity.
At KABOOM!, we believe every child needs access to nature-rich spaces where they can play, explore, and thrive. When kids play in nature, they are able to enjoy better health, stronger learning outcomes, safer communities, and a deeper connection to the world around them. The Nature Exploration Area Toolkit is a new resource designed to help cities, schools, and community leaders create public spaces that blend the benefits of play and nature.
Nature Exploration Areas (NEAs) use elements like logs, boulders, native plants, and loose parts to spark unstructured, sensory-rich play. They can be built in parks, on schoolyards, or near libraries and early childhood centers, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional playgrounds.
The toolkit offers practical guidance on how to plan, design, fund, and sustain NEAs.
It includes:
- Steps for engaging the community in participatory design
- Strategies for climate-adapted and equity-driven site selection
- Examples of what has worked in Austin, Oakland, Providence, and San Francisco
- Funding tips and sustainability planning
- Research on health, learning, and environmental outcomes
The NEA Toolkit was developed by KABOOM! in collaboration with the Children & Nature Network and National League of Cities, and is part of the broader Nature Everywhere Communities initiative.
If you’re a planner, policymaker, educator, or advocate, this resource will help you create greener, healthier public spaces for kids.
Looking for more playspace design inspiration?
Explore our Early Childhood Playspace Design Toolkit.
The KABOOM! Early Childhood
Playspace Design Toolkit provides
recommendations for the
development of outdoor early
childhood playspaces that
support children ages 0–5.