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By Carey Reeder| Managing Editor

Earlier this November, the Clanton City Park playground received a new sensory path that is designed to encourage physical activity by children in the community in another fun way.

The Chilton County Extension Office and the City of Clanton partnered on the project for the new vibrant and interactive pathway that allows children to walk a brightly painted path with their entire bodies. Children can leap like a frog, walk a tightrope, crawl like a crab, march like ants or take a moment to relax like a tree.

“The sensory paths add a vibrant and attractive touch to walking paths and community spaces,” Sherry Carter, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System Supplemental Nutrition Assistance

Program – Education (SNAP-Ed) specialist, said. “These markings encourage physical activity and guided play, helping participants improve their strength, endurance and balance.”

A partnership between the Alabama Extension SNAP-Ed Program and the City of Clanton made the pathway possible. SNAP-Ed community partners applied for the mini-grant to receive sensory stencils and paint to create the path, and Clanton was selected as one of the beneficiaries. Chilton County High School’s Student Government Association and Chilton County 4-H students volunteered their time to create the path at the playground on Nov. 15. The students got the opportunity to add their own personal touches to the path and project, leaving an everlasting mark on the children in the community. Student and adult volunteers that came out to assist with the path’s creation included Dani Claire Brock, Sherry Carter, Kaydee Champion, Caysen Craig, Todd Flowers, Allie Fulmer, Cresley Haggard, Lexi Kate Hayes, Chase Lowe, Jasmine Nash, Mason Ousley, Shreya Patel, Landon Stephenson, Marynn Vaith and Krystal Vaith.

“The sensory path is a fantastic addition to our playground,” Clanton Mayor Jeff Mims said. “It’s another step in ensuring our parks provide inclusive spaces where all children can play, learn and thrive. We’re proud to invest in initiatives that enhance the quality of life for families in Clanton and help children build a foundation for a healthier future.”

The sensory path is now open for use at the Clanton City Park playground, and all children in the community are welcome to explore the new feature.