The playground, covering an area of 450 m², was planned and implemented in collaboration with local residents and children. The focus was on the wishes of the citizens: various cooperation partners were actively involved, including the Hans-Böckler-Straße and Friedrich-Engels-Weg daycare centers, the Schelmengraben district center, the Schelmengraben e.V. working group, and the KiEZ Elterncafé. 

From November 2016 to February 2017, a total of 136 people were surveyed, including 112 children aged 2 to 6. The children were allowed to choose their favorite play equipment by rating it based on sample images and marking it with gold stars. This resulted in a clear prioritization of the most popular play equipment.

The plans resulted in six main pieces of play equipment that can be used in combination with each other. The winners were a sand baking station, a trampoline, and a hammock swing, supplemented by swings, a hill slide, and seating. The result is a varied and child-friendly play area that optimally meets the needs of its young users.

A special highlight is the large concrete dinosaur that has adorned the playground since 1995. Under the guidance of its creator, sculptor Alexander Lihl, it was redesigned based on a template created by David, who was 10 years old at the time, and given a new pink coat of paint during a workshop with young artists from Schelmengraben – a symbol of the creative community and the lively development of the neighborhood.

This project shows how committed citizen participation and close cooperation between the city, initiatives, and children can lead to sustainable improvements in the district. We are delighted that the "DINO" playground is now an even more beautiful place for play, fun, and community.