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Substituting a rocketship for a platform is fantastic way to cut costs when building play complexes or multiple connected elements. Children will still be able to crawl up high, as they would on a platform, but rocketships require far less materials to build.

Ladders on slides, monkeybars, or bridges can also be swapped out in exchange for rocketships to create a more interested path the the top.

They can be built with 3 or 4 posts, depending on the element they are attached to.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your "4 Pole Rocketship"or"3 Pole Rocketship."(Note: must create a free user account to see full instructions.)

Got an idea for a playground element? Join our community and submit your designs here.

A common challenge for many potential play sites is lack of shade. Particularly in tropical climates, substantial shade is necessary for children to play safely and comfortably.  Bamboo is an excellent shade solution as it is low maintenance and grows rapidly.

Beyond mere shade, bamboo can be used within play spaces for a variety of purposes. At aPlayground Ideas build in São Paulo, Brazil,a bamboo grove was planted along the playground fence bordering an adjacent road to create a more enclosed and peaceful atmosphere.

Paths can be carved amongst the grove to create nature walkways, or even mazes.

Bamboo groves can also be designed as shelters or coves, like this delightful little bamboo play hut byNonochan.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own bamboo grove.(Note: must create a free user account to see full instructions.)

Got an idea for a playground element? Join our community and submit your designs here.

by Wenpei Wang

Ah, the iconic tire swing. Its image conjures up memories of the picturesque summer days of childhood.

But every classic can do with a restyling from time to time. There are a few technical problems with this design. For starters, sitting inside is a relatively uncomfortable experience.

Perching on top is a better bet.

But it can be difficult to find a stable position and nearly impossible to swing without assistance.

This adapted double chain design, which allows for more solid seating, is common in playgrounds in Germany.

While this design can work well for some contexts, the heavy weight of the tire and child can cause the chains to wear down over time and require replacement.

The "Swing Seat Simple Soft" is an adapted version of the classic tire swing, taking these limitations into account. Its double anchor hangings make a more comfortable seat for the child while still retaining the balancing, wobbly effect of the round tire. Using only a section of the tire means less strain and longer durability.

It's also one of our "No Excuses" pieces: all you need for this element is a truck tire, a couple motorbike tires (or rope/chain), and a few bolts and nails. Simple and nearly free. Anyone can make it.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own “Swing Seat Simple Soft."(Note: must create a free user account to see full instructions.)

Got an idea for a playground element?Join our community and submit your designs here.