Playground Plans

Preschool Playground Design

Playground Plans

There are many different options for playground plans. It is important to understand the specifics about the children, and to use the space efficiently. Popular items to include are complex climbing structures, swings and tire swings, overhead exercise elements, dramatic play villages and playhouses, sand and water stations, art, science and nature, and music gardens.

Playgrounds here at Grounds For Play are designed with a specific age group in mind. A playground for toddlers will contain different play equipment than a playground for school aged children, and it is always best to keep these separate.

For many playgrounds, space is an issue. In a park, space is needed for walkways, fields, and garden areas. A small playground with one climbing structure complete with a slide and a few ways to climb up may work in a limited space.

With more space available, a playground can include several connected climbing structures, a swing set, and different features such as music elements. Playground plans will show where each piece is scheduled to be placed, as well as what else is existing in the playground. If a general theme is chosen, it can be easier to decide which pieces of playground equipment to choose.

A playground should be designed from the ground up, rather than just from a budget down. Where climbing equipment or swings are located, an appropriate safety surface needs to be chosen. Overhead exercise elements might be attached to the side of another climbing structure, as overhead climbing helps to increase muscle strength in children. To the contrary, a swing set would be set apart from other equipment to support safety concerns.

In hot areas, or playgrounds with full sunlight, a shade or canopy over the top of the climbing structure should be included. This will increase kids’ comfort and keep them happy. To increase adult comfort and encourage supervision, a bench or picnic table is useful, and should be located so as not to restrict a clear view of the play area.

For help with playground planning, look through the design help section at www.groundsforplay.com. Grounds for Play can help you design the perfect playground for any age group, whether it is in a park or a backyard.