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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Shade is a very important topic for many communities when it comes to their children. The structure not only provides a bit of relief from the sun but also adds to the aesthetic quality of the overall playspace. The more inviting a gathering area is, the more likely community members will begin to treat it like the “town square” it should be.
Adults and children appreciate having plenty of seating areas in and near their playspace. Picnic tables provide seating, which encourages supervision when placed near a playground. Also, picnic tables provide opportunities for groups of people (families, friends, community members) to socialize and enjoy one another’s company.
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!