Children's Outdoor Play

From see-saws and swings to climbing frames and playhouses, there is a vast selection of garden play equipment suitable for all types of gardens, age groups, and budgets. Whether you’re looking for something to keep the children engaged in the garden for hours or something to entertain the grandchildren during their visits, you will surely find garden play equipment that meets your specific needs.

Starting with simple standalone items like slides, swings, and see-saws, play equipment can also be found in larger integrated structures or modular components that can be combined into larger setups. When purchasing, consider your child’s age, as there are play items designed specifically for preschoolers, or you might prefer options that can adapt as your children grow. For instance, swings with baby seats that can be converted into full-sized swings, or climbing frames featuring platforms that can be expanded for more adventurous play for older kids.

The benefit of modular designs is that you can select components that align with your children’s preferences. Don’t overlook features like dens or shaded areas that can provide your children with countless opportunities for imaginative play, or activity tables that add an extra element and also serve as a great spot for snacks or lunch, as playing outdoors often builds up an appetite.

Creating the ideal outdoor play environment requires careful planning and consideration. First, think about how much space you have available and how much of it you want to dedicate to garden play equipment. It’s wise to measure accurately. Once you have a sense of the available space, consider the types of play equipment that will fit and what fits within your budget. When assessing space, ensure there is ample room around the equipment, and remember that swings will require additional clearance. It might be helpful to create a wish list of desired features. If they are old enough, children may enjoy participating in the planning process for the type of equipment they would like. If you have a wide age range to accommodate, try to include elements that younger children can also use independently. A sand table or sandpit is often a great choice.

One of my all-time favorite climbing structures for the garden is the domed climbing frame. We purchased one for our young granddaughters when they were 3 and 5 years old. They spent countless hours climbing, hanging, running, and jumping – they had an absolute blast. When they were worn out, simply draping a large blanket or sheet over the dome transformed it into a ‘playhouse’, allowing for cushions, dolls, tea sets, and finger foods to provide many more hours of fun and enjoyment.

Another crucial aspect to consider is safety. Look for safety standards in the items you are evaluating, such as EN71, a CE mark, and Lion mark. If you choose timber-based play equipment, examine how the timber is treated and whether the equipment comes with any guarantee. Consider other safety features you might want, such as the type of ladder, the grip on the rungs, and whether you need a handrail of some sort.

You should also think about how the items are assembled and how they are secured into the ground. Some pieces, like large playhouses, may require a concrete foundation to sit on. For others, you might want to consider a safety surface around them, especially if the ground tends to get muddy or if the surface is too hard.