In the summer of 2009, dedicated parents and children at the
Nelson Waldorf School built a natural playground. Imagine a rock
climbing wall that doubles as seating for an amphitheatre,
tunnels under earth berms, and musical instruments hanging from
covered structures. The Nelson Waldorf School received a $20,000
grant from the Ministry of Housing and Social Development to
build a playground to enhance the outdoor learning environment
at the school. "Studies of children in North America, Europe,
and Australia indicate that more creative forms of play evolve
in school-yards with a green or natural component than in a
manufactured play area," says Luke Menkes, a volunteer and
parent on the playground committee. The group built on the
natural elements of the existing space including the 'enchanted
forest' that has served many children and their imaginations
over the years. In addition to all the forested play spaces, the
playground includes slides, swings, and a rock spiral, all of
which serve to connect children