Pop-Up Playground: Innovation and Imagination

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you gave children heaps of cardboard, fabric, scissors, tape, freedom and time? The Pop-Up Playground has the answer.
Some of you may be wondering what, exactly is a Pop-Up Playground. When I first heard our camp was selected to attend, I was curious too.  This video posted by Pop-Up Adventure Play, does an excellent job at describing it.


Essentially, a Pop-Up Playground, is where children are given the opportunity to explore, play, and build, anything, and in anyway they desire. It sparks children's imagination, and innovation, while the adult takes a step back.

Pop-Up Playground At Work:

Having the opportunity to witness a Pop-Up Playground in action, I must say, I am very excited about them. The children at my camp range in ages from 5-12. The pop-up playground offered me an opportunity to see the way they work together, or individually to create and carry-out plans. Some worked with members from other camps, while others built and played with campers from our camp. Some worked individually, and others worked in groups of various sizes. They were able to create fortresses, homes, and whatever their imagination told them. They became problem-solvers, and engineers. They took on various roles. They cooperated. They communicated. Most importantly, they had fun. 
Some may see these materials as junk. But children see it as so much more. 
Hurray for unorganized play!