Sims Park: New Port Richey, Florida
This post was sponsored by Landscape Structures as part of a Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.
If you know anything about the Tampa Bay area, it’s that it is HUGE. It continues to grow into smaller towns outside the Tampa-St. Petersburg area and we are used to commuting. What is nice about this part of central Florida is that there are quaint towns along the Gulf coast that have their own charm and activities for kids of all ages. In New Port Richey, Florida, we were surprised to stumble upon this little gem right off of U.S. Highway 19.
Sims Park offers a splash pad, a dog-friendly atmosphere, a waterfront area for fishing, and an inclusive playground courtesy of Landscape Structures. The colorful playground is a delight for little ones of (almost) all ages, and it provides a variety of activities that children of all abilities can enjoy.
When you first arrive, it is easy to find a place to park. You will also notice the canopy that covers the playground equipment. Since we are in Florida, this is a MUST. I am still shocked when I see playgrounds and slides that are burning up in the sweltering sun. Since shade is available, as a parent, I feel better about spending a longer time playing at the park. I’m not worried about too much sun exposure, and we can sit back and relax!
Once you get inside the playground, you can see that there are several different areas for different age levels. There was a smaller section for ages 2-5, and then a larger area for 5-12. There were ramps, ropes, stairs, and a squishy floor that made it easy to navigate. No mulch, sand, or dirt here!
This playground was designed by Landscape Structures which creates inclusive playgrounds and supports inclusive play for all children. October is Sensory Awareness Month, so it is important to know that there are playground facilities in YOUR area that you can visit to enjoy these types of playgrounds too! Plus, it’s important to see how inclusive play can help children learn lessons like leadership, persistence, support, and empathy.
Inclusive play is more than accessibility. These playgrounds address age levels and developmental appropriateness along with sensory stimulating activity. Communities can create social equity and inclusion by supporting inclusive playgrounds!
There were swings, a see-saw for children of all abilities, and additional options like a rock climbing wall and monkey bars.
With a little help, my son mastered the monkey bars, explored the slides, and tested out the various “extras” this park had to offer.
There were musical instruments, spinning wooden blocks, and more.
The best part about this playground, besides the canopy, was the option to play at your own pace. You could rest on a swing or relax and create an imaginative game using all of the different features.
My son loved the slides, of course, but I saw a confidence develop after he tried the rock climbing wall. It was an activity that was new to him, so I think he felt empowered!
Let’s play!
Look for an inclusive playground near you.
Sims Park is located at 6341 Bank St, New Port Richey, FL 34652.
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