Bloomington selected as "Playful City" for sixth year

Bloomington was recognized again for its ongoing commitment to play when it was selected for Playful City USA designation for the sixth consecutive year by KaBoom!, a national playground non-profit.

KaBoom! said it is dedicated to creating great playspaces through the participation and leadership of communities, as well as to giving kids the childhood they deserve by ultimately envisioning a place to play within walking distance of every child in America.

Bloomington was selected for “Playful City USA” designation because of its outstanding dedication to play, according to a statement from KaBoom!.

“We like Bloomington, in particular, because of the concerted efforts to involve everyday citizens in the decision-making process,” Communications Manager for KaBoom!, Mike Vietti said.

The Indiana Parks and Recreation Association recently awarded Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department the “Agency of the Year” award. A variety of opportunities, including summer events like “Touch a Truck,” “Messy Mania” and the free summertime series of concerts and movies in Bryan Park have made the department successful in making Bloomington residents more playful.

Lynsie Haag, community events specialist for the parks department said that the “Touch a Truck” program is in its 13th year this summer.

“The event was created for kids to have fun,” she said. “By allowing them to explore the inside of fire trucks and ambulances, they get to experience things up close.”

Playful City USA is sponsored by the Humana Foundation and is a nationally recognized program honoring cities and towns investing in children through activities like play. Cities and towns that are recognized make a commitment to play by developing tailored actions plans to suit their community.

“In order for designees to qualify they must map local playspaces, complete a needs assessment, and develop an action plan that identifies a minimum of three policies, programs, and initatives aimed at increasing access to play at school, in neighborhoods, and through community engagement,” Vietti said.

According to a press release from the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, today’s generation of children play less than any previous generation, despite the benefits of play. The Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics reports that play is essential to the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being of children.  

“The Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department is proud to be able to offer the community a huge variety of places to play, and fun programs to enjoy,” said Bill Ream, the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department community events coordinator.

Ream announced that the community will celebrate its renewed Playful City USA status with a Play Day on Aug. 23 in Bryan Park. This Play Day will include games, a bounce house and a free showing of the movie “Princess Bride.”

Bloomington is one of 217 communities across the country to be recognized as Playful Cities. Indiana’s other designees include Fishers, Fort Wayne and Franklin.

There are 20 playgrounds in all available for children in Bloomington’s city parks. The B-Line Trail and other natural trails at Griffy Lake provide additional opportunities for families to have access to free playspaces.

Bloomington’s newest city park playground is scheduled to open in July. It will be located at RCA Community Park at 1400 W. RCA Park Drive.

“We are fortunate to live and work in a city that recognizes not only the healthy benefits of play, but also supports the many organizations that prioritize play in Bloomington,” Ream said.