We are in the process of building our first Nature Play Space! This space has been designed for children to have hands-on play with natural elements.

In order to get this project off the ground, we are seeking sponsorships for brick pavers and play features such as a Sensory Garden, Nature Kitchen, Playhouse, Art Station, Digging Area, and a Teaching Garden.

Individuals and organizations alike are welcome to purchase a brick for $150 or a play feature for $2,000 to advertise their organization, honor a loved one, or show community support. Each brick purchased will be part of the paved walkway through the Nature Play Space.

Brick pavers can feature up to three lines of text and up to 13 characters per line. Play feature sponsors will get a custom plaque that will be displayed on their purchases. We reserve the right to approve all engraving.

Studies have shown that outdoor play has many benefits for children who regularly play in natural settings including:

• Ability to cope with stress
• Increased activity levels
• Improvement in fine and gross motor skills
• Increased self-discipline, observation, and reasoning skills
• Improved concentration
• Strengthened immune system
• Decreased symptoms of ADD/ADHD and behavioral disorders

This outdoor space will encourage families to play in nature and demonstrate to caregivers how they can create their own spaces at home.

The Nature Play Space will be housed at the Benton branch located at 1800 Smithers Dr. Benton, Ark. 72015. We hope to break ground on the Nature Play Space in September 2021 and have scheduled the grand opening for May 2022.

To purchase a paver or play feature, send inscription and check to:

Friends of the Saline County Library
1800 Smithers Drive
Benton, Ark. 72015

This project is made possible with American Rescue Plan Act funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act Grants to States program and administered by the Arkansas State Library.