Having your playground right in your backyard can make a world of difference in your and your children’s lives. Imagine stepping outside and letting their imaginations run wild with slides, climbers, activity panels, and other outdoor play equipment!
Outdoor play provides physical benefits and teaches social skills while helping to develop creativity. Plus, it’s an investment that will provide fun for years. In this article, we’ll discover why building an outdoor playground should be at the top of any family’s summer must-have list.
The Benefits of Having an Outdoor Playground
An outdoor playground in your backyard has a wide range of benefits. Building an outdoor playground can help children:
#1. Develop Physical Strength and Coordination
A playground in your backyard allows kids to get active and develop physical strength. With climbing, sliding, and swinging activities available, children can strengthen their muscles and improve their coordination.
#2. Enhance Motor Skill Development
Having access to an outdoor playground, kids can practice motor skills such as jumping, hopping, and balancing. These activities help to promote the development of physical coordination and agility. It’s also a great way for kids to learn how to control their bodies and movements.
#3. Increase Social Interaction
Outdoor playgrounds encourage kids to interact with one another by engaging in cooperative play (e.g., sharing toys). This provides a safe environment for them to practice social skills such as sharing, communicating, and problem-solving. Additionally, it can also help kids learn how to take turns!
#4. Stimulate Imagination and Creativity
Using an outdoor playground encourages children to explore the world around them, use their imaginations, and think creatively. By having access to a playground where they can create different adventures, children are provided with an ideal environment for self-expression that can help boost their overall development.
#5. Increase Overall FUN FACTOR
Last but not least, having an outdoor playground in your backyard is just plain fun! There’s nothing like watching your kids playing, laughing, and enjoying themselves. With all the different activities to choose from, you can be sure there will never be a dull moment and that you’ll have many memories to look back on for years to come.
Tips For Designing Your Outdoor Playground
Now that we’ve seen the many benefits of having an outdoor playground let’s take a look at some tips and advice for designing it.
Choose Age-Appropriate Activities
When choosing what kind of activities you want on your playground, make sure to consider your children’s age group, younger kids should have access to slides and climbers specifically designed for their size and weight range.
Use Safe Materials
Safety should be your top priority when it comes to building an outdoor playground. Always make sure that you’re using materials that are approved for use in playgrounds. Plastic is one of the best materials to use as it is durable, won’t rot, and can easily be wiped clean.
Choose the Location Carefully
The location of your playground is significant. Ensure there is enough space for the set, and it won’t be too close to trees or other structures, as this can be a safety hazard. It’s also a good idea to put the playground in a shady area throughout the day, even when it’s hot outside.
Add Plenty of Soft Surfacing
Adding plenty of soft surfacing around the playground is essential. This will help soften any falls and provide a comfortable place for kids to relax and play in between activities.
Building an outdoor playground is a great way to get the whole family outside, get active, and have fun. With these tips in mind, you’re on your way to creating a safe, enjoyable playground for your kids to enjoy!
SPI Plastics is perfect for creating an outdoor playground. Our safe, durable, and easy-to-clean plastic materials meet all safety regulations and standards and come in a variety of colors and sizes so you can create the playground of your dreams. Contact us today to learn more!