These expression swings mark the second phase of the Natural Play Space Program in North Battleford. (Josh Ryan/battlefordsNOW)

By Josh Ryan

New swings

Second phase of Natural Play Space project set in North Battleford celebrated

Oct 14, 2020 | 3:16 PM

On a chilled morning in Centennial Park, the Battlefords Early Children Intervention Program (ECIP) celebrated the second phase of the Natural Play Space Project, which includes an upgraded swing set for families.

A partnership between ECIP and the City of North Battleford, the project is meant to enhance childhood development for families in the area. A total of $50,000 will come from ECIP, with the city matching the amount. Colleen Sabraw, executive director with ECIP, thanked city council and administration for their efforts.

“It’s been a real partnership, whether it was money put in or time and commitment,” she said.

Sabraw said having expression swings, which are more securely designed than old baby swings, will help enhance important face-to-face interaction between children and their parents, grandparents, guardians, etc.

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“Swinging is really essential for children’s growth and development,” she said. “So, we’re really excited to have these in the park today.”

These new swings are meant to enhance the face-to-face interactions that are important for childhood development. (Josh Ryan/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Despite the pandemic, the park remains well used by families and students. Sabraw said the swings are particularly a frequent stop for people walking and taking strollers through.

“I know this space is utilized lots,” she said. “Families and children are coming here and experiencing a new way to play.”

Gordon Whitton, parks and arena’s manager for the City of North Battleford, echoed the compliments toward the working relationship for the program.

“I think the city is lucky to have an organization around like ECIP that gets stuff done like this,” he said.

His department, which has overseen the project, will also undergo the implementation of the next phase of the project to instal a liberty swing to accommodate kids in wheelchairs. That won’t be undertaken until the spring.

“This one was alright. Just a simple task of taking down the old baby swings and putting these ones up,” Whitton said.

The new ECIP flag. (Josh Ryan/battlefordsNOW)

Shelley Wandler, ECIP board chair, said it’s exciting to soon have that addition to the park, something that the community hasn’t had before.

“There’s no place in for child in a wheelchair can go and swing, or mom’s can swing with their babies, so I think it’s essential for the Battlefords.”

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josh.ryan@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @JoshRyanSports