Playgrounds Are Just Plain Fun!
Introduction
Playgrounds are not just about fun—they play a crucial role in child development. Experts agree that playgrounds contribute to physical, cognitive, and social growth. They provide a space for children to explore, imagine, and interact with others, which is vital for their overall development.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Public Playgrounds
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, public playgrounds have been closed in many cities across the United States. This has left many parents wondering how to ensure their children continue to receive the benefits of outdoor play. The good news is that you don’t have to give up on these benefits entirely. By creating a backyard playground, you can bring the fun and developmental advantages of a playground right to your home. With children spending more time at home, now is the perfect opportunity to make your yard more engaging for them.
Building a Backyard Playground: Options and Ideas
A Safe and Fun Backyard Playground on Grass for Family Play
Prefabricated Playgrounds: A Convenient but Costly Option
One option for creating a backyard playground is to purchase a prefabricated set. These products are convenient and come in various designs, but they can be expensive and lack uniqueness. Additionally, many of these sets use a significant amount of wood, which may not align with eco-friendly values.
Custom Backyard Playgrounds: Affordable and Eco-Friendly Alternatives
If you’re looking for a more affordable and environmentally friendly option, consider building a custom playground using recycled or upcycled materials. This approach allows you to create a playground that fits your style, your yard, and your children’s interests while being mindful of the environment.
Using Recycled or Upcycled Materials
For those who are environmentally conscious, building your own playground with recycled or upcycled materials is an excellent choice. Not only does it save money, but it also reduces the demand for new resources. Shipping pallets, for example, are versatile and can be easily sourced from local businesses. Recycled lumber is another great option; you can find high-quality salvaged wood at places like Arbor Upcycle, San Francisco’s only tree salvage wood mill.
Once you’ve gathered your materials, you can let your imagination run wild. Sandboxes, forts, and playhouses can be constructed from a few basic supplies, and there are countless designs available online to spark your creativity.
Integrating Your Existing Landscape
Don’t forget to consider the existing features of your backyard when designing your playground. Your yard may already have natural elements that can be incorporated into your design. For example:
- Slopes and Hills: A hill or terraced area could be the ideal spot for a slide.
- Trees and Wooded Areas: A sturdy tree branch could be perfect for a swing, or two trees could serve as anchor points for a zipline.
- Flat Areas: A level area is perfect for setting up giant backyard board games like Jenga, chess, checkers, or Scrabble. If you have enough space, you might even consider creating a mini-golf course.
DIY Backyard Playground Projects
A Wooden Backyard Playground Set on Natural Grass for Fun and Play
Creating a Backyard Obstacle Course
If you’re short on time or energy, a homemade obstacle course is a fantastic alternative. You likely already have many of the materials you’ll need. Old tires, scrap wood, and other items lying around your garage can be repurposed into an exciting and challenging course.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Stepping Stones: Use log slices as stepping stones.
- Balance Beam: A few pieces of scrap wood can become a balance beam.
- Ramps and Tunnels: Pallets, ropes, PVC pipes, and tarps can be used to create ramps and tunnels.
You can make your obstacle course a permanent fixture or store the materials so your kids can create a new course every time they play. This flexibility ensures hours of entertainment and endless possibilities for fun.
Backyard Playground Safety Considerations
A Safe Backyard Slide with Sand for Fun and Play in Natural Setting
- Swing Safety: Ensure that swings can support your child’s weight and won’t collide with other objects when fully extended.
- Fall Protection: Consider what type of ground covering you can use to soften falls. Mulch, rubber mats, or sand are good options.
- Slide Safety: Make sure there is a clear landing area at the bottom of any slides.
Remember, as the builder and owner of the playground, you’re responsible for ensuring it is both safe and enjoyable for your children.
Need Help? A Professional Can Assist!
Are you unsure where to start with your backyard playground project? Since the onset of quarantine restrictions, we’ve seen a surge in interest in building backyard playgrounds. Whether you need help with design, construction, or integrating the playground into your existing landscaping, check with a local landscaping professional to help create a playground-friendly backyard design.
Why Hire a Professional?
- Expert Design and Construction: They’ll help you create a playground that is safe, enjoyable, and visually appealing.
- Landscaping Integration: They can seamlessly integrate your new playground with your current landscaping goals.
- Custom Solutions: Their team will work with you to design a playground that fits your unique needs and preferences.
For help incorporating more trees into your playground's landscape, contact Arborist Now today!
Originally posted on August 25, 2020.
