Playscape Features
Natural Protective Border
A natural protective border will enclose 120,000 square feet of land, or 2.75 acres. This natural fence will ensure that the children stay in the enclosed area allowing the parents to feel comfortable letting their children play uninhibited. Natural playscape fences tend to be made of natural materials and are designed to feel part of the landscape and not an enclosure.
Water Feature
In the focus groups conducted by designer Robin Moore, the children overwhelmingly expressed a desire to play in water. A water feature will be designed to ensure safety and maximum accessibility. This feature is especially important at Cincinnati Nature Center because of our commitment to protecting the biodiversity of our pre-existing streams and ponds from the thousands of visitors we receive annually. Giving children a space to engage nature without destroying pristine habitat is an invaluable experience. The water feature will be a critical center of activity and play in the CNC Playscape.
Landscaping
Landscaping is integral to any Natural Playscape. The CNC Playscape will have a variety of habitats and landscapes, including woods, fields and a stream. At CNC we are committed to preserving native plants and grasses and will create established paths to help guide the children from one habitat to the next. The paths inside the CNC Natural Playscape will also be designed to accommodate children with a variety of disabilities. Approximately 50% of the 2.75 acres of Natural Playscape will have to be landscaped.
Toddler Play area
This area will be a special designated area to safely accommodate the needs of children ages 1 to 3 and their parents. It will require distinct landscaping and protective bordering.
