Computer-Themed Playground in Helsinki to Teach about Technology

(eap) In Helsinki, a special new adventure playground was recently completed in the Ruoholahti district of the city: The creatively designed structure invites kids to learn more about digital technologies, but without the means of any digital devices. Instead, the playground features a computer-themed play tower, climbing steps in a keyboard design and a sandpit in the shape of a video game controller. In addition, learning materials including colouring pictures, tasks, technological games and audio content are available for free download on the playground’s website.

The playground was designed by the Finnish children’s book author Linda Liukas in cooperation with the landscape architecture firm Näkymä Oy. The play equipment was manufactured by the Danish company Monstrum. The decision to bring a technology-themed playground to the Ruoholahti district of Helsinki was also made because of the large number of international information and tele-communication companies located in the area. Also, there’s an old Nokia factory that today serves as a cultural centre.

“It’s exciting to design a playground for children, for whom play often means a computer game instead of a sandbox. The new playground offers something new for this generation. In the digital world, children are users, but in the playground, they are creators. I hope that Ruoholahti Playground will become an attractive place for children of many ages, where they can also learn about technology while playing,” says Liukas. ■