Ideas for Your Outdoor Playground

When designing an outdoor playground for schools there are many options of things to include. Ideally there should be a good balance between fun things for kids to do and ample space for them to rest.

1. Adventure trail equipment:

When I was a kid there was nothing that I enjoyed more than obstacle courses. From stepping snakes to rope walks to tire walks they always made fun challenges.

2. Wadding pools:

Wadding pools aren't only for the summer, biking along the interior can be fun all year long. While they are very shallow and only really suitable for small kids, they are still a great way to cool off on those extremely hot days. Supervising adults can leave their feet in while they watch.

3. Basketball net:

You don't need an entire outdoor court, just a net mounted on a brick wall. Kids can play alone or with a friend. One on one is always fun as are games like HORSE and 21. If you paint a big square on the wall it can be used as a tennis backboard or even act as a football net.

4. Social areas:

It is always important to include an area where kids can rest, eat their lunch or chat out of the sun. Gazebos are a great place for people to meet and relax, and large shelters can be used for outdoor teaching sessions.

5. Swings:

Another place to take a break and catch up with a friend is on the swings. Children can get competitive by seeing who can swing the highest or jump off in the most creative way, or they can just drag their feet along the ground while they chit chat with their mate.

6. Planters:

Building areas where children can plant and nurture their own little ecosystems is a wonderful way to teach them about the environment. Teachers can get it started by using class time to take their students outside and teach them about vegetation. After that, the plant can be the responsibility of the child, where they'll have to water it, bud it, and make sure it gets enough light.

7. Slides and jungle gyms:

We mustn't forget the classic way to have fun on the playground, and that's via the slide, tower, bridge, and net ladders. This was where I learnt balance and bravery, it's where my parents learnt them and it's where your child will learn them too.

What will you include in your playground design?outdoor playground equipment