To determine whether the creative-adventure playground model functions as an effective extension of the classroom, researchers at Northern Illinois University's Early Childhood Education Research Laboratory studied the effects of playground participation on the development of visual-motor integration in 32 preschool boys and girls aged 3 to 4.5. The children were randomly assigned to control or experimental groups within four preschool classes at the Laboratory. Experimental groups participated in at least 30 minutes of playground experiences twice a week while control groups participated in indoor free play. Results of pre- and post-tests indicated that playground participation clearly helped children improve their visual-motor integration skills. Both boys and girls in the experimental group showed a significant gain in test scores. In the control group, boys showed some gains but girls showed none. The experimental group also became assertive and imaginative, and redesigned the playground environment. Results showed that teachers can use creative-adventure playgrounds to reinforce fundamental learning tasks, because the playgrounds capitalize on children's natural learning, exploratory behavior. The results had implications for preschool programs and indicated that playground participation should be included in curriculum planning. (SB)