Creating a playground that will keep kids engaged and eager to return requires careful consideration of a number of factors.
Set a Goal
The first step is to determine why you’re building the playground. Get your community and other stakeholders involved in this part of the process to uncover their opinions.
Initial considerations will include the age groups that you expect to use the playground, activity preferences, capacity and the size of the planned space.
Resources
Of course, your budget and your ability to find additional support for your project will have a big impact. Know your budget, and determine whether you can find assistance through grants from local nonprofits, schools, community organizations or other sources. Your playground manufacturer will often have ideas on how to locate additional funds for your project, so be sure to tap their knowledge.
Work out your timeline. Do you have a firm finish date in mind? Your playground design and installation team can help you set a realistic schedule.
Keep your community engaged by continuing to communicate after the initial planning discussions. Keep them updated on your selections and be sure to acknowledge where their ideas have influenced decisions.
Location
Consider your location. Is shade available, or will you need to incorporate shade elements? Is there a slope to account for? Does the site have adequate drainage? How much space is available?
Also be sure to consider the need for supervision. Does the site offer caregivers plenty of places to keep an eye on their kids? Other considerations might include the site’s setting. Is it located near a school or a local attraction? Is it in an urban or rural area?
Most importantly, how accessible is the site? How many families can easily walk to the location? Is it located near other meaningful destinations?
Design Time
Once you’ve got an idea of what you’d like to include, bring your ideas to your playground design team. They’ll help you select equipment and surfacing, and will create a visual rendering, which you can share with the community to build excitement as you get ready to break ground.
For More Information
Play and Park Structures
800-727-1907
www.playandpark.com