The Occupational Therapist’s Guide to Summer Park Play
Boost Developmental Skills Using What’s Already Around You!
When most people think of a trip to the park, they imagine carefree fun, fresh air, and maybe a picnic lunch. But did you know that your neighborhood playground is also packed with opportunities to support your child’s motor, sensory, and social development?
As pediatric occupational therapists, we love summer park play because it naturally encourages movement, problem-solving, coordination, and social engagement all while having fun. And best of all? No fancy equipment required!
Here’s how to make the most out of your park visits this summer through an OT lens:
1. Swings: More Than Just Fun
What it supports:
Vestibular input (balance and movement)
Body awareness
Self-regulation
Try this:
Encourage your child to pump their legs, count out loud as they swing, or try swinging on their belly for added core work. If your child is overwhelmed or low-energy, swinging rhythmically can be calming and organizing to the nervous system.
2. Climbing Structures: Building Strength & Planning
What it supports:
Gross motor strength
Motor planning
Problem-solving skills
Try this:
Set little “challenges” like climbing up without using hands or choosing a new way to descend. These small tasks help children think through their movements and build confidence.
3. Monkey Bars: Grip, Core & Coordination
What it supports:
Upper body strength
Core stability
Bilateral coordination (using both sides of the body together)
Try this:
Even if your child can’t get across, holding on or swinging from one bar to the next builds important skills. Encourage “hanging contests” or alternate climbing up and down the side supports.
4. Slides: Facing Fears & Spatial Awareness
What it supports:
Tactile input (especially for sensory-sensitive kids)
Body awareness
Motor sequencing
Try this:
Go down together, try different sitting positions, or climb up the slide (only when safe to do so) for a full-body workout.
5. Balance Beams or Curb Walking
What it supports:
Balance and posture
Visual tracking
Core engagement
Try this:
Have your child balance while carrying an object, walk heel-to-toe, or play “freeze” in different poses. Add sidewalk chalk paths or hopscotch to increase complexity.
6. Social Play: Practicing Peer Skills Naturally
What it supports:
Turn-taking
Following rules
Emotional regulation
Try this:
Observe or gently guide your child to join others in play. Play games like tag, “follow the leader,” or group challenges. These are perfect for practicing social boundaries and flexible thinking.
Final Thoughts
Summer should be full of joy, freedom, and movement. With just a few intentional strategies, your child can develop essential occupational skills right in your own neighborhood. So grab a hat, pack some snacks, and hit the park not just for fun, but for growth!
Have questions or want to learn more about how to support your child’s development? Contact us at Development Therapy, LLC to speak with one of our pediatric occupational therapists.