8 Key Elements To Consider When Building An Outdoor Playground

If you’re looking for a fun and educational outdoor activity with your children, look no further than building an outdoor playground! Outdoor playgrounds offer tons of benefits for children, including teaching them new skills, helping them get exercise, and providing a fun social environment. In this article, we are going to discuss eight key elements you need to think about when building an outdoor playground. So, if you’re ready to start planning your new playground, read on!

Location

The first thing you need to think about is the location, as you’ll want to build your playground in a safe and accessible spot. If you plan on building a backyard playground, ensure it’s away from any hazards like pools, trampolines, or power tools. You’ll also want to consider the space you have, as outdoor playgrounds can vary in size. In your backyard, it’s essential to ensure the ground is level and adequate shade to protect children from the sun.

On the other hand, if you are building a playground for your community, like in a park, there are additional factors to consider. You’ll need to collaborate with local authorities to select a convenient location for families. Accessibility is key, so choose a spot that’s easy to reach by foot, bike, or public transport. Additionally, ensure that restrooms are nearby and that seating areas are available for parents and guardians. Having the playground within sight of other park amenities, such as picnic areas or sports fields, is also beneficial to complement the community’s recreational offerings.

Theme

Choosing a theme is one of the most fun parts of creating an outdoor playground. Will your playground be based on your child’s favourite book or TV show? Or will it be a more general theme like pirates, knights, or dinosaurs? You can also choose to create a themed playground around a certain activity, like sports or music. Whatever theme you choose, make sure it’s something that will excite and inspire your children!

Playground Surface

Choosing the right playground surface is extremely important to ensure the safety and protection of children from falls. A suitable surface can significantly reduce the risk of injury, providing peace of mind for parents and caregivers. One of the most popular surfaces is rubber mulch, favoured for its soft, forgiving nature that cushions falls effectively. In addition to rubber mulch, there are other materials that can be considered for playground surfacing.

Best types of playground surfacing:

1. Rubber Mulch: Soft, absorbs impact well, and provides excellent cushioning.
2. Sand: Provides a natural texture, though it may require regular maintenance to keep it clean.
3. Engineered Wood Fibre: Offers a natural look and good shock absorption, though it might need occasional topping up.

Worst types of playground surfacing:

1. Concrete: Extremely hard and unforgiving, increasing the risk of severe injuries if a child falls.
2. Asphalt: Similar to concrete, asphalt is hard and can cause significant injuries.
3. Grass: While it might seem soft, grass can become compacted and hard over time, losing its shock-absorbing properties.

When selecting a playground surface, it’s essential to evaluate the pros and cons of each material to ensure you choose the safest option for your children’s play area. Avoiding hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt is crucial, as they can be particularly dangerous if kids fall on them.

Types of Playground Equipment

Now it’s time to start thinking about the type of playground equipment you want to include, as it plays a significant role in your children’s outdoor experience. With countless options available, it’s essential to choose equipment that is age-appropriate, safe, and engaging to ensure children have fun while developing their physical and social skills.

To help you get started, here’s a list of popular playground equipment you might consider:

1. Swings – A classic choice that appeals to children of various ages, perfect for developing balance and coordination.
2. Slides – Available in multiple sizes and designs, slides are a favourite for thrill and excitement.
3. Climbing Structures – Climbing structures enhance strength and agility.
4. Riding Animals – Encourage imaginative play with ride-on animals such as frogs, elephants, and dinosaurs.
5. Monkey Bars – Excellent for building upper body strength and confidence as children swing from bar to bar.
6. Activity Panels – Panels that feature engaging games and activities for kids to interact with.

Remember to consider each option’s safety, durability, and maintenance requirements to ensure a positive and enduring play environment.

Safety Features

Safety should be your number one priority when designing your outdoor playground. Creating an environment where children can play freely while minimizing risks is essential. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

1. Install Safety Features: Ensure railings are on high platforms to prevent falls. Surround sharp corners with adequate padding to reduce the risk of injury.
2. Secure the Perimeter: Fencing the playground is crucial to prevent kids from wandering off and ensure they play within a safe boundary.
3. Select Appropriate Surfaces: Use impact-absorbing materials like rubber mulch or sand under play equipment to cushion falls.
4. Regular Maintenance: Establish a routine to inspect and maintain playground equipment. Repair or replace worn-out or damaged parts to keep everything in good working order.
5. Provide Clear Signage: Add signs that clearly communicate the rules of the playground. This helps ensure everyone knows the safety guidelines, including parents and caregivers.
6. Consider Age-Appropriate Equipment: Design areas dedicated to different age groups to ensure children play on equipment suitable for their development level.

By thoughtfully incorporating these elements, you can create a fun and secure playground that offers peace of mind to parents and joy to children.

Shade Areas

If you are building your outdoor playground in a sunny area, then you’ll want to make sure there are plenty of shade areas. That way, kids can stay cool and protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Shade structures like umbrellas or awnings are perfect for this, or you can plant some trees around the perimeter of the playground.

Accessibility

You’ll also want to think about accessibility when you’re designing your outdoor playground. If you have any children with special needs, include features that will make the playground more accessible for them. That might mean adding ramps or wide pathways or choosing playground equipment that is easier for them.

Picnic or Seating Areas

If you plan on building a large outdoor playground, you might want to include some picnic or seating areas. That way, parents can relax and watch their kids while they play. Picnic tables are perfect for this, or add a few benches around the playground’s perimeter.

These are just a few of the key elements you’ll want to think about when building your outdoor playground. By taking these things into consideration, you can create a space that is both fun and safe for your children! If you want help designing your new outdoor playground, then don’t hesitate to contact us today. SPI Plastics has years of experience in creating outdoor playgrounds, and we would be happy to help you create something perfect for your kids!