OSLO

Oslo, Norway, is a city that thrives on play, with many modern and innovative play spaces, including themed and educational playgrounds. Norway's education policy recognizes play as the precursor to all future learning and a vital component of childhood. The playgrounds we visited were a riot of color and sound, filled with children at play. Kids of all ages ran tirelessly up steep hills and down slides, while others waited below, listening to the echoes through the long tube. They challenged and guided each other to the tops of impressive climbing structures. The surrounding buildings were adorned with bright, colorful murals, creating a vibrant and engaging sense of community.

There’s a lot to learn about play in Berlin, Germany. Berlin is home to more than 1,850 playgrounds and 2,500 public parks. Berlin’s play spaces are highly creative and innovative, with no one just like the other, and include eco-friendly materials, designated barefoot grounds, risk zones, children only (grown-ups prohibited!), equipment for children of all ages, and more.