Hillsborough Parks and Recreation

Hillsborough Township is proud to be a Playful City USA Community!

WHAT IS A PLAYFUL CITY USA COMMUNITY?

In 2016, Hillsborough was first named a "Playful City USA" community!  We haven't stopped playing, Hillsborough also received the recognition in 2017.

Hillsborough is one of only 258 communities nationwide, one of three in New Jersey, and the only in Somerset County to earn this recognition in 2017.  Communities recognized as Playful Cities are leaders in creating opportunities for children to get active and balanced play through programs, policies, facilities, and infrastructure.

Hillsborough and these like-minded communities understand and promote the benefits that play provides, including
happier and healthier children.

WHAT MAKES HILLSBOROUGH PLAYFUL?

-Hillsborough maintains 19 parks and recreational facilities with playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails and paths,
picnic tables, and much more

-The Parks & Recreation Department offers over 30 yearly programs and recreational sports leagues for children of all ages and abilities

-All of Hillsborough's parks are smoke-free, protecting the little lungs at play

-Facility improvements at parks are routinely undertaken, providing up-to-date and safe equipment and amenities

WHY IS PLAY IMPORTANT?

Social Development
-increases social interaction
-promotes positive self-esteem

Cognitive Development
-helps problem-solving and decision-making
-use imagination and creativity

Physical Development
-helps develop gross motor skills
-increases fine motor skills
-releases tension, anxiety, and stress

(From Dr. Javiette Samuel, Tennessee State University)