Case Study: QCCS Winston Glades

Reviving play: How Wearthy’s playground transformed children’s activity levels

In today's fast-paced world, providing children with the time and space to play and explore nature is more important than ever. Unfortunately, though, this isn’t really happening.

In fact, the Australian Institute of Welfare recently revealed kids now spend just 30 minutes a day engaging in outdoor activities during school hours—a phenomenon we have come to call a 'nature deficit.'

This decline in play has led to an increase in children who are developmentally vulnerable, both physically and mentally. The solution is simple: parents must prioritise free, outdoor play to build resilience and improve the health and wellbeing of future generations.

This is where Wearthy steps in. We recently partnered with Winston Glades Early Education Centre in Flinders View, Ipswich to conduct a unique study and explore the true impact Wearthy playgrounds have on children's physical activity levels and overall development.

BEFORE

You see, at the heart of Wearthy's design philosophy lies a deep connection with nature. The Winston Glades playground took this to the next level by incorporating sensory retreats, water elements, and even a vegetable garden. This integration of nature and innovative play elements fosters connections with the natural world, instilling in children an appreciation for environmental stewardship.

We tracked the steps of the centre’s children for two weeks before our playground was installed and for two weeks after the build was complete. The results were nothing short of remarkable—a 39 per cent increase in steps, with one young girl experiencing an astonishing 115 per cent surge in her step count.

By encouraging more outdoor play and fostering connections with nature, the study reaffirms that well-designed play environments have the power to positively improve children's physical wellbeing. 

The impact extends far beyond increased step counts, though – by putting the development of the child first and enabling them to be the creators of their own play and learning experiences, we help children develop resilience, compassion, and confidence.

“We have noticed a big change in the atmosphere and sounds of children's play. There are different areas that bring different play styles and there's a flow through the environment,” Centre Director Lisa Harris explained about the new Wearthy build.

“If we were to close our eyes and just listen, we could hear the laughs and excitement of children's voices echoing through the air. Particularly near the water features, the squeals of excitement as they challenge the direction of the water and how it falls on them, that's when we hear their joy and energy.”

In its simplest form, the study reaffirms the power of play. By encouraging more outdoor adventure and fostering connections with nature, we are collectively sowing the seeds for a generation of kind, resilient, and thoughtful individuals.

As Wearthy continues to grow and design, our vision remains unwavering: to provide children with the space to discover their own potential and embrace the joys of play. Through this, we aim to create a better world, where every child feels supported, challenged, connected, and confident, equipped with the skills and values needed to become compassionate and resilient leaders of tomorrow.