Adventure Playground returns to Mercer Island

Mercer Island's Adventure Playground, sponsored by JayMarc Homes, is a one-of-a-kind play area that allows kids to create their own play adventure.

Mercer Island’s Adventure Playground, sponsored by JayMarc Homes, is a one-of-a-kind play area that allows kids to create their own play adventure.

Nestled in the wooded forest of Deane’s Children’s Park, the program provides children with toolboxes, various building supplies, safety items and the freedom to create build-it-yourself play zones, with the guidance of staff.

Kids will learn basic craftsmanship and team-building skills while constructing their dream forts. It’s an opportunity to be creative and get children playing outside, and parent participation is encouraged. Past forts have included climbing ropes and slides.

The playground is open from 1-4 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays through Sept. 25, and is only open on Sundays during September. Children under 12 must be with a parent. Closed toed shoes are required.

While at the park, don’t forget to take pictures of your children with their forts. Your child could win a $200 Toys-R-Us gift card by entering the Adventure Playground Photo Contest. Details and rules of the contest are available at the park and online.

JayMarc Homes and various trades donate building material throughout the summer. If you have any extra lumber or building material lying around that you need to find a new home for, donations are also open to the public. Adventure Playground is available for parties or private rentals.

For more information, visit www.jaymarchomes.com/adventure-playground.