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Benches don’t need to be boring. In fact, a well-executed bench can be a highlight in a play space. They can be conversation nooks…   Work stations… Or nap spots… Benches built at playgrounds are typically intended to act as adult supervision spots. But the best of benches incorporate play into their design, bleeding the […]

The "Car Tire Climber" is a hybrid climbing frame and bridge as children will use it to climb between elements, up or down. It's a more interesting transition challenge than simply a path between play pieces. It's angled design also creates a den-like protected area underneath. Similar to the"Cargo Net Motorbike"design, the "Car Tire Climber" […]

  "Children begin to develop body boundaries around age three or four. The idea that children have a world that they wish to keep separate from others is evident in studies on children’s sense of space and their child constructed play places. Corson and Colwell (2010) noted that children as young as three understand and […]

The “Cargo Net Motorbike” is a great element to build if you happen to have access to a lot of motorbike tires. In most areas, used motorbike tires are cheaper than car tires, so this can easily be a low-cost element. The net can be built in any configuration to fit your space. Be sure […]

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 […]

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. Melbourne Botanical Gardens photo by flickr: michaelpoon168 Beyond mere shade, bamboo can be used […]

Ah, the iconic tire swing. Its image conjures up memories of the picturesque summer days of childhood. photo by flickr: wickenden 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. photo by flickr: naveenjamal […]

Got a spare tree trunk or a few logs laying around? Why not whittle them into this creative element for imaginative play? You could make a whimsical "animalian" creature… Thailand – Playground Ideas Attach tire tread to create tongues and other appendages. Thailand – Playground Ideas Or apply the design instructions to create something more […]

The "Bridge Tread Loop" is a simple, low cost, no-frills bridge option for connecting two platforms or play pieces. Its wobbly nature makes for a great balancing element. The bridge is made up of two lengths of tire tread loops, side by side, connected over fabricated steel "staples." Follow the link to get the step-by-step […]

The“Scoop and Shaft” is an interactive element and a great addition to a cubby-house. Kids can scoop sand or soil on the ground level, pull it to the top, and dump it through the shaft. Playing with the scoop and shaft will challenge children to coordinate their actions and develop social skills. They may require […]

Think of it like a banister you'reencouragedto slide down. We were inspired to design a set of instructions for building this element after visiting the wavy pole slides at Lafayette Park Playground in San Francisco, designed byMiller Company Landscape Architects. This adaptation is built from straight steel poles and truck tires. Follow the link to […]

The "Snowflake" is one of our newest designs in the library. It was inspired by another one of our favorites: the"Motorbike." Brazil – Playground Ideas While the "Motorbike" is a great imaginary play feature it also makes for a surprisingly comfortable lounge chair. And we're not the only ones to have discovered the beauty of […]