Five important things to consider
- It has to be fun!
While the primary goal of most playgrounds is to provide children with development opportunities, a playground must be fun. This doesn’t mean filling it with every piece of equipment imaginable. It means carefully considering the children – their age, their interests and any special needs – and then choosing the equipment that will inspire them to play. - Take advantage of the natural features of your site.
When it comes to playgrounds, one size or design doesn’t suit every site. When you opt for a bespoke playground design, you can use the natural features of your site to your advantage. The gentle slope, the large established tree, the nearby rocky outcrop can all be considered as part of the footprint when your playground design is customised. Using these natural features to your advantage will maximise your playground’s appeal and play value. - Safety is paramount, but so are opportunities to take risks.
Every playground must comply with Australian Playground Standards. There are rules in the standards about equipment heights and softfall. The surroundings are governed too – overhanging limbs of trees, nearby drainage ditches, proximity to pathways, bikeways and roads — everything is considered. However, a playground should still be designed to allow children to take risks during play. Features such as stepping stones, rope bridges, climbing frames or balance beams require children to assess potential risks for themselves. When children rise to meet a challenge they extend themselves and develop new skills. - Make your playground uniquely yours.
Whether your playground is in a public or private setting, by making it uniquely yours you will be creating a space where children love to play. A piece of playground art, interchangeable activities, a ‘secret’ hideout – they all make a big impression in the minds of the little people you are seeking to draw in, challenge, develop and engage in your world of fun. - Seek to partner with an expert.
When choosing your playground designer, choose a company that has proven experience and capabilities in playground design and construction. Ask to see examples of their work and personally visit some of their sites if you can. Contact their past customers and ask them about the quality of the company’s workmanship and customer service. Find someone who will genuinely listen to your ideas but is also prepared to offer their professional opinions and advice. Lastly, make sure they know how to meet a budget, keep their promises and deliver on time.
