Playground Association Established

BECAUSE OF A LARGE NUMBER OF REQUESTS for advice and information regarding playgrounds and playground development, a small group of people met in Washington, D.C. in April of 1906 and organized the Playground Association of America. The purpose of the new organization was to collect and distribute knowledge about playgrounds; to promote interest in playgrounds throughout the country; to seek to further the establishment of playgrounds and athletic fields in all communities; and to promote directed play in connection with the schools. President Theodore Roosevelt gave his hearty endorsement to the PAA and was elected honorary president.

The new Association started a monthly magazine, the Playground, and field workers were employed who went city to city meeting with committees and public officials. The workers shared experiences and assisted in starting playgrounds and recreation programs. The new organization became a clearing house for information, issued publications, and organized annual play congresses.

It has been said that no single event has had greater significance for the recreation movement in America than the Washington meeting and the establishment of the PAA. It launched the recreation movement on a national scale by bringing together great minds and unifying efforts.

The Playground Association of America focused attention on the need - and helped determine needs; it assisted in the planning of adequate programs, the training of leaders, and provided a source of information. In addition, and of equal importance, the new organization raised the standards of service and leadership.