Turlock Parks Make Life Better

Healthy Habits That Last a Lifetime

PlayOn!

In the heart of California’s Central Valley is the city of Turlock. Home to more than 70,000 people, Turlock offers a wide range of recreational amenities, including team sports, health and wellness classes, and aquatics and swimming. They also provide two dozen parks for children and families to enjoy. We visited Summerfaire Park during our CPRS Parks Make Life Better Tour.

Like many California communities, Turlock is concerned with the growing rate of childhood overweight and obesity. A UCLA study found nearly 40% of children in Turlock are overweight or obese. To help combat this trend, city officials utilized the research and educational training from CPRS and PlayCore, along with grant funding from GameTime to create a play area that promotes youth physical activity and aligns with national standards for physical education. 

Congratulations City of Turlock! You’re making life better for the children and families of your city.

Allison Van Guilder - Director, City of Turlock "GameTime's funding made it possible for the City of Turlock to build this new playground and replace the equipment at two other parks."
Dr. Michael Suk Dr. Michael Suk Active play in outdoor environments is the gateway to a healthier lifestyle.
Stephanie Stephens - Executive Director, California Parks and Recreation Society "Play brings communities together. We’re excited to share how Parks Make Life Better®, share state-wide training, and help local communities put research into action!”
About Turlock and Summerfaire Park

Committed to Healthy Families

The CPRS Statewide Healthy Play Initiative was an important program for the City of Turlock. During the educational sessions, park professionals learned best-practices to design spaces that address physical activity for children, help reverse the trend of childhood obesity and promote healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Matching Funds for Three Parks

With the help of matching funds from GameTime, Turlock Recreation leaders were able to build a new PlayOn! Playground at Summerfaire Park, as well as replace playground equipment at two other parks.

National Demonstration Site

Summerfaire Park has been named a National Demonstration Site by PlayCore for creating a play and recreation space based on best practices for youth physical activity. By incorporating the design guidelines and curriculum found in PlayOn!, the City of Turlock is setting an example for communities across the country.​

2018 CPRS Parks Make Life Better Tour Learn More