Giving your children access to playgrounds can provide several benefits, no matter their age. One of the most significant advantages they provide is that it boosts the amount of physical activity your kids get—plus, they get to have lots of fun in the process! What better way to let your kids stay active and have fun than bringing the ‘fun’ to them by building a playground at home.
Here are things you need to remember when building a playground on your property.
Your Children’s Age and Preferences
Knowing your kids’ likes and preferences can help you decide how you will construct the overall playground. Children play differently depending on their ages. For example, a playground designed for 5-year-olds won’t appeal to older kids and might not be the right size. Likewise, younger children will have a hard time using playground equipment intended for 12-year-olds.
For expert advice, it is best to consult with a landscape and construction supply company before starting on your playground project. They are in the best position to recommend materials, tools to use, and suggestions on how to decorate the play area.
Consider Your Space
Along with your kids’ age and abilities, another crucial thing to remember when building a playground is considering the number of children you have to make sure the area is large enough to accommodate all of them.
The place where you’ll be building your backyard playground should also be checked and confirmed safe and appropriate before you start constructing, meaning it should have solid ground underneath—and free from potential hazards like electrical wires and overhanging branches.
Types of Materials to Use
Although wood may be a cost-effective option, traditional playgrounds don’t use it since they can crack and wear down fast. The type of materials that’s best for your playground at home depends on where you live and the climate conditions you often face. For instance, if you live in a colder region, stainless steel or aluminum are great choices.
The Style of the Playgrounds
Some playgrounds are vibrant and eye-catching, while others are subtle and blend with the surrounding landscape. Meanwhile, some have distinct themes such as outer space or jungle, while others follow a ‘modern’ aesthetic. Whatever you choose to go with depends on your child’s interests and what would work best for your space.
Get the Backyard Playground ‘Essentials’
When it comes to essential pieces for any home playgrounds, it’s all about your kids’ preferences. Luckily, there is a broad range of parts available, ranging from swings to slides, and others that you can customize following your kids’ ages and ability levels. You can also change these later as they grow.
However, the most common ones you can choose from are:
- Swings
- Slides
- Rock walls
- Ramps
- Monkey bars
Safety Is Key
Safety should always be at the forefront of your kids’ decisions, especially when choosing backyard playgrounds. A crucial safety consideration to make is the construction of the playground. You can virtually use any materials when making playgrounds, but some materials aren’t cut out for the job. For instance, wood is susceptible to warping and cracking and while metal can become rusted fast.
Playground Maintenance
Playgrounds will experience general wear and tear, mostly if kids frequently use them over time, which they will. That’s why to ensure the one you’ll build at home lasts, practice proper maintenance, keeping it safe and appealing to your kids and their friends. Plus, it saves you from costly repairs and replacement.
Playgrounds are great places for kids to have fun while staying active, giving their cognitive skills a massive boost. Plus, it exposes them to fresh outdoor air more often—and building one at home is relatively easy! Just make sure to remember the considerations mentioned to create a functional and sturdy playground for your kids to enjoy long-term or at least when they outgrow it.
