Becky Temko Tot Park

Becky Temko Tot Park is a small, charming neighborhood park located in Berkeley, California. Situated between Dwight and Channing Ways in Southwest Berkeley, this compact playground is primarily designed for toddlers and their siblings.

The park, which is about half the size of Totland, was renovated in August 2018. Its history dates back to 1968 when the City of Berkeley acquired the land. The park's development involved significant community participation, with neighborhood residents helping to demolish an old building on the site and the Flatlands Neighborhood Association playing an active role in its planning and maintenance.

Originally named Roosevelt Tot Lot, the park was renamed in 1998 to honor Becky Temko, a local resident and former chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission. The renovation was completed with grant funding through the East Bay Regional Park District Measure WW Grant Program.

The park's design is tailored to young children, featuring a variety of play equipment and amenities within its fully enclosed space. It includes a play structure with slides at different levels, a spinning tea cup, and unique stone sculptures resembling cats. A sand pit with water features provides sensory play opportunities, while donated ride-on toys and tricycles offer additional entertainment for young visitors.

Becky Temko Tot Park is known for its community feel, with many families leaving behind toys for others to enjoy. This creates a special and exciting environment for new walkers and children who may not have access to a wide variety of toys at home.

The park's compact size makes it ideal for parents and caregivers to keep an eye on multiple children simultaneously. However, the park does not have on-site restroom facilities, which can be challenging for families with young children.