It's common to hear children express their desire to go to the park and play with friends. At Hobbs Playground, this sentiment is echoed by many adults as well. The newly built, inclusive playground serves as a haven for children of all ages and brings adults together, especially members of the local nanny community.

A Place of Socialization for All Ages

Children's Play and Socialization

Children at Hobbs Playground have a wonderful time climbing, sliding, and swinging on the new equipment. They make friends easily as they run from the we-go-round to the climbing structures and various swings. The fully wheelchair-accessible we-go-round has replaced the rusty old merry-go-round, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the fun.For the nannies, the grassy area next to the playground provides a perfect lunch spot. Around noon, they spread their blankets while the older kids help the younger ones set up their little chairs with trays. All the children help clean up after lunch, teaching them important values.

Adults' Socialization and Bonding

Nannies like Jill Thomas and Melissa Mahoney find Hobbs Playground to be a "lifeline" and a "blessing." They meet up with their friends here and have a great time. Thomas, who cares for Annie, Bailey, and Hayes, recalls how she used to put the twins back-to-back in one swing and started making friends. Mahoney, a nanny for 30 years, also values the bond she made with other nannies at Hobbs.They share support and advice on activities going on in Marblehead. For example, they learned about story time with Miss Debbie at Abbot Library (10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays) from other nannies and now attend regularly.

The Rebuilding of Hobbs Playground

Hobbs Playground was rebuilt in 2022 thanks to the fundraising efforts of Marblehead Family Fund members. They saw the need for a new playground and believed the community deserved more. Events like the Gingerbread Festival and Pumpkin Illumination helped get the campaign rolling.Even during the pandemic, MFF members continued to find ways to raise funds. Watching the funds increase thanks to community donors was a special experience. Donors who had kids now in their 20s shared their wonderful memories of the park and wanted to give back.Dowling, the former MFF chair, led the project with love. She is glad to see the community enjoying the new playground. When the kids are young and looking for an activity, they can pop into Hobbs and meet someone they know or make a new friend.

Activity in All Weather

The recent run of great weather was a gift to the nannies, who spent many sunny days at Hobbs. But even in cold weather, the playground is bustling with activity. It shows that the new generation is coming and will enjoy the park.Dowling is happy to see the park full of people, knowing that it provides a place for both children and adults to socialize and have fun.