SEPTEMBER 2011
FEATURES
SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT:
A Guide to Recreation & Sports Surfaces
Every type of surface has its adherents and detractors, but from sports fields and courts to playgrounds, the context and needs of the facility drive the ultimate choice. In this special supplement, we consider sports turf, court flooring and playground safety surfaces from a variety of perspectives, offering advice to help you make your own decisions when the time comes.
Budgets and the Environment Drive Trends in Natural and Synthetic Sports Fields
Cost, Maintenance, Performance Are Top Issues in Sports, Fitness Flooring
Finding Safe Surfaces for Playgrounds
New Paths in Programming to Connect Children With Nature
With best practices for programming to help foster children's connection to nature still in its formative stages, many park and recreation facilities, nature centers, preschools and communities are diverging from the traditional programming trails to forge their own paths.
Trends in Restroom Structures
From vault restrooms to plumbed facilities, it's important to find the right fit—and ensure that it will last for the long haul. Learn about the latest trends in restroom structures.
Keeping Waterparks Afloat in a Choppy Economy
Over the past several years, many facilities have had to tighten their belts, but facility directors and owners are still finding innovative ways to make sure that water plus play equals fun.
Playgrounds: Safety & Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
Proper maintenance is an essential element of playground safety. This feature will examine the to-dos to ensure playgrounds are well-maintained.
GUEST COLUMNS
Make Dollars and Sense Out of Concessions
Concession foods still remain one of the best ways to make a big impact for the recreation industry. They can boost revenue, encourage families to stay longer and return more often, and set you apart from other local entertainment options.
Auditing Facilities & Preparing for Emergencies
Facility audits impact how organizations prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. An audit is an important part of the risk management plan. Find out how to do it right.
A Playground With a Ball
Everyone wants to have a ball! Noncompetitive playcourts can help get kids more active and encourage play in ways ordinary playgrounds can't always achieve.
The Need for Drowning Detection Technologies
Despite efforts to combat the problem, drowning still occurs at aquatic facilities across the country. New technologies can help add a layer of protection.
FACILITY PROFILES
All Aboard the Play Express
Kids Express Preschool in Lancaster, Pa.
When Kids Express Preschool needed a lower-cost playground solution, school leaders took their time to find the right fit.