By Emily Harrington
You are probably familiar with Zahnd Park if you have kids playing little league or youth football. If you don’t, this park may not be on your radar.
It’s a small park in the equipment sense, but a large park in terms of space. Situated at the corner of Windsor and Staley Roads in Champaign (behind the newish YMCA), Zahnd Park sees plenty of activity during youth baseball and football seasons. In fact, there are 15 acres of space for area kids to compete and play. A pony league baseball diamond, separate little league baseball diamond and youth football field surround the actual playground area.
This park would be a perfect place to occupy your other children if their siblings are participating in the organized sports seen at the park. The playground equipment has two distinct and labeled areas. The first area is for 2 to 5-year-olds. Here you will find modern equipment with a lattice-like tunnel. I appreciated this airy detail. Most tunnels are enclosed so they hold water and make it tough to track your little one. There are shorter slides and steps, perfect for a smaller kiddo. For the 5 to 12-year-old set, there are longer, curvier slides, a short rock wall, standing Connect Four and hanging bars to swing from.
My one disappointment—no swings—my favorite playground accoutrement. Bummer. Luckily, my son wasn’t as disappointed as I was in this missing link. Both areas come with posted rules, which I had never seen before:
- Wait your turn.
- Watch out for wet surfaces.
- Bring an adult to watch you.
- Look out below!
- Keep clear of moving things.
- Wear clothing that can’t get caught on things.
- Make sure that you’re the right age for this play area.
Well said, Champaign Park District! I wish these rules were at each park we visit. There are up-and-running water fountains and indoor bathrooms! The gender-specific bathrooms are housed in the Kiwanis Sports Complex. This is a major upgrade from the usual portable potties. The only problem—we didn’t get to go inside since they were locked. I’m assuming they are only unlocked on days where high volumes of people are expected. There is also a large pavilion where small family gatherings could be held and plenty of parking. All in all Zahnd Park is a nice place to occupy your kids if there is something going on at one of the three adjacent fields. Indoor bathrooms—BONUS!
Also, take your feet or wheels around the 1/2-mile path!
Emily Harrington is a Chambana townie that left her 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. job to be a 24/7 mom to a dreamy son. Still interested in writing, Emily uses some of naptime to practice her passion and keep her mind right. Emily is a happy wife with a happy life because she fell for a fellow townie. Oh, and let’s not forget her other son, a degenerate canine named Heppenheimer.