Dear Readers,

I am writing this letter because of my idea to build new playgrounds in the Zuni community. I believe that we need a new playground in the Zuni Community because it has been more than ten years since the Zuni Community has had a new playground. The one we currently have is worn out and in terrible condition, so that children can’t play on it. It would probably best to tear the old playground down and rebuild a new one because it is severely damaged and has some missing pieces. The old playground is also a hazard to the children since it is broken and it is falling apart piece by piece. This is where my idea comes in: to build a new and improved playground where it is safe for everyone.

You may ask why a new playground? Zuni community members might think it is time for a new playground because the current one we have is really old and broken down. It is not safe for children to play over there. It is also an outdated playground, and we need new equipment to make it feel safe. It is time to upgrade the current playground by adding new equipment such as a basketball court, a football/soccer field, a sandbox. It may also be a good idea to build more than one new playground so it won’t be so crowded at one playground and becoming dangerous. My main idea for these playgrounds is to keep them safe and fun!

Another reason to build a new playground in Zuni is because our kids need to get outside more, and that would help our community to connect more with each other. Being outside and enjoying yourself can be a stress reliever. I think it is also important for children to play outside so they can be active instead of staying inside their house and playing video games. Having a playground in the community can improve children's physical, social, emotional, and imaginary skills. Children can also develop coordination skills, motor skills, and cognitive skills. I think a playground can connect our community and make us stronger through communication with others and making friends. 

You may be wondering how we as a Zuni community can obtain a new playground? First, we can plan and make a proper and effective appeal to the Zuni Tribal Government. It will be important to identify community members that support building new playgrounds in Zuni, and invite them to be part of a steering committee. Also, it will be important to locate individuals who would be willing and able to help build new playgrounds. Once that is done, we as a community can locate spaces of land where we can build new playgrounds. 

In my opinion, the most accessible and safest place to build a new playground is over by the old Twin Buttes High School. I think that is the safest place to build a new playground because it’s almost in the middle of Zuni. There are fences surrounding that place, and it is by other work offices.

In conclusion, I think that a new playground would probably provide the best entertainment for our young Zuni children. Maybe then instead of playing video games and being on their cellphones, young Zunis would get outside and meet people. Ultimately, I believe that playgrounds can make our community stronger by connecting us with one another.

Thank you.