Adding a huge, colorful map brings color to the playspace and teaches geography to kids. Children will be amazed by this enormous map, and will be drawn to thinking about it and playing around it. Painting is also a fun volunteer project! A finished painting project always provides a sense of accomplishment and very little expertise is needed to contribute successfully to the project.
Gather the listed supplies and tools.
Locate the section of asphalt/concrete where you would like to paint the map.
Make sure the surface is clean. Sweep and wash if needed. Use concrete primer to prepare the space.
Begin to unroll the stencil.
Anchor the stencil with tape to keep the wind from blowing it around. Note: the stencil paper is very thin and the wind will easily rip it if it is not taped securely.
Unroll stencil section 2 below and next to section 1→2 on the side indicated by the →2. Be sure the stamped edges of the sections are aligned and the adjacent edges are close together.
Unroll the rest of the sections in order so that the final layout looks like the illustration.
Use chalk or bright paint to mark the holes, creating the outline of the states/countries.
Remove the stencil, connect the dots, and paint the countries. You may want to add non-skid additive to the paint. Pastel paint colors tend to show the best on concrete/asphalt.
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Adding garden beds to your playspace gives children the opportunity to learn more about where food comes from and how vegetables and flowers grow. Edible plants can add many great sensory elements to enhance your space!
Beauty will always enhance a playspace, because it draws people into a common area – and into an opportunity to socialize with fellow community members. The planters also provide a unique opportunity for children to tend to a plant and watch it grow!
Colorful directional posts can beautify your playspace and are great for pointing out landmarks selected by the community. If there are children present at the build day, you may want to enlist their help to choose the directions and paint the signs.