“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” –Fred Rogers
Our area has an enormous amount of playgrounds - some great, some not so great. The 5 listed below fall into the Best of the Best category. If you haven't visited them before, now is your chance!
1. First on our list is Seaside Park Recreation Park located on Bayview Ave between 5th and 6th in Seaside Park. Playground is nice and clean, suitable for younger and older children. Both big kid and baby swings are located at this park. Plenty of seating for parents, great place to pack a picnic and spend the day. Obviously tons of sand to play in, along with swimming in the Bay. (Not positive if you need beach badges here, anyone know?)
2. Second is Skipper Park on Maine St in Toms River. This is one of the newest parks in the township, having a Marine theme. The big kid side and little kid side are separated by covered picnic tables and a set of baby swings. There is another set of swings on the big kid side which has at least one swing designated for handicap children.
3. Third is Jakes Branch County Park, 1100 Double Trouble Road in Beachwood. This park is huge, lots of fields and one GREAT playground. Newer and clean, best for the toddler and up age. Lots of swings to choose from, not a whole lot of seating and no fencing...so if you've got a runner, make sure you wear your sneakers to chase them.
4. Fourth we have Windward Beach Park, Princeton Ave in Brick.
Another fairly new addition, Windward Beach Park is a huge hit with all the kids. Plenty of climbing options, slides, big and little swings and just a short walk down to the beach area. There are also plenty of picnics tables in the shade for a nice lunch!
5. And finally, our fifth park is Riverview Park @ Riverview Rd & Whitesville Rd in Toms River. Also another of the newest to the township, this park is Cowboy themed. Big and little kid sides are separated by covered picnic tables. Tons of swings, baby on the little kid side and big swings on the big kids side. Mostly fenced in, giant opening to the parking lot.
Editors note: I'm super aware the Castle Park is one of the most popular in Toms River, but everyone already knows that. These parks are all just as great as Castle Park, maybe even better. Plus, I like to be different. :o)
