Who hasn?t hovered by a play structure or told their kids not to climb too high" No parent wants to see their child get hurt. But research shows that child-directed play?when kids get to imagine and create on their own and take risks?fosters their cognitive, social, emotional and physical skills. Between letting kids push their boundaries and keeping them safe, it can be hard to find that balance. These 10 adventure parks and experiences across North America make it a little easier (while also being incredibly fun).
Photo: Courtesy of City Museum
1. City Museum

Closed shoes and a flashlight are suggested at City Museum in St. Louis, Missouri. What was once a shoe warehouse is now a massive playground for children (and adults who want to explore like children), with enchanted caves, a treehouse, a ferris wheel and an epic 10-storey slide. City Museum offers programs throughout the year for homeschoolers and boy and girl scouts, as well as overnight stays at the museum for children 16 and under. Photo: Courtesy of Terra Nova Adventure Play Environment
2. Terra Nova Adventure Play Environment

Instead of using off-the-shelf plastic products, the playground equipment at this Richmond, BC, park is made from yellow cedar. But the real draws here are a 35-metre zip line, twisting stainless steel slide, rope walkway and climbing wall. The playground is suitable for kids ages two and up.
Photo: Courtesy of Imagination Playground

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