A Few Important Aspects Can Make A Dull Playground Into A Fun-Filled One
Playgrounds are places made for little children to come and play. There are many shapes and types of playgrounds made. The core idea of a playground is not only to encourage children to spend some time outdoors and have fun but also to be able to do so in a safe environment. If you are thinking about making a playground for your children or maybe even the local houses nearby, then you can choose from many themes like wild forest grove or more on the artistic side. Below are some tips and ideas that will help you to make a good playground.
Design
It all starts with the design. Children are attracted by different types of design and play to comprehend the world around them and learn life skills. Most people make the mistake of focusing the playground on the active and physical type of play but overlook key aspects that provide children with opportunities to engage in different types of play. When you are making a playground, try to focus on adding different types of play for the children wherein they can use their body and mind. Active play includes setting up Bounce Houses and other games wherein they can run, jump, climb, kick and roll. Sensory play includes touching, seeing, and understanding different textures, shapes, and colors.
Inside Sense Of Place
You could be thinking of adding a castle theme or something else, but if the children do not understand it then it is of no use. Do not make the playground generic wherein it could be at any part of the world and look the same. Try to add a bit of culture, and the spirit of the community to the playground. When the children are exposed to the culture they are from, there are many positive outcomes. It will help them to develop a sense of civic pride. You can add pretend play areas like playhouses, town halls, and others to provide the children with a more authentic experience. You can add elements wherein the children can learn how houses are made or how blacksmiths work.
Add Childish Creativity
As an adult, the purpose of the playground may be very clear for you. It is there to allow children to play and using the same thought you will add some slides, swings, and monkey bars for them to play on. However, children have a completely different set of creative sides and they try to use elements in a way that they were not originally designed for. Keep this in mind when you are adding elements to the playground. Use items that will encourage and help the children be more creative. Add elements that can be used in multiple manners. Do not try to look at it from an adult point of view. For example, while you may want a beautifully carved wooden car, the children might enjoy a unicorn more.
Keep Surprises Ready
Kids love a good surprise and it does not even have to be something special. For example, one of the things you can do in the playground is to leave loose parts on it that the kids can use in a way that they find suitable. They will happily move it, stack it or try to fix it on something else. They will have an element of surprise when they discover a new use of the part. Adding small surprises elements can allow the children to be able to recreate the playground every day. You can add little painted pictures in different corners or elements that make sounds, or any other things that can keep the playground interesting.
Have A ‘Flow’
Remember that children do not follow a natural straight line when they are playing. They will however move from one area of play to another and continue playing. The ‘flow’ here means to make the playground design in such a manner that everything connects with each other. For example, if you have a part of the playground with rope bridges, monkey bars and so on then it should slowly lead to another part that has hopscotch or tree houses. When the flow is maintained in the playground, children will be able to go in different directions and explore each side properly.
Keep Their Energy Level In Mind
In different parts of the playground, you should be able to foster varied feelings and atmosphere. Remember that all children have different energy levels and you must respect that. For children who are very active and loud, the playground should have a corner and slide area whereas children who are generally quieter can enjoy a more calm beach or garden-inspired area. When you create areas for different energy levels, the children will feel comfortable doing different kinds of activities without being disturbed. Keep an area where some children can shout and scream and use the other where some children can happily daydream.
Remember The Basics
If there are any natural elements around the area then you can incorporate them into the playground. For example, tree limbs can be used for climbing and swimming. Also, do not forget to keep in the mind the basic needs of the playground other than the games. Keep a water cooler set up wherein the kids can easily hydrate themselves. Add some seating areas as well wherein adults can sit as well as kids. They can use the seating arrangements for even eating their meals or using it as a crafts corner. Keep the area litter-free and add trash cans so that you can encourage the kids to dispose of trash easily. Add an area where you can store all loose parts at the end of the day and the play equipment will be safe. If there are any rules related to the playground that you would like to be specific about, you can print them out and add them to the signage.
Finally, during the whole process of the playground, remember to think from a child’s perspective. It will bring about unique and creative ideas to your mind.
