Children need a place where they can be creative and active. When designing playgrounds, one must recognize that all children are different and play in unique ways. There are several important considerations when determining playground design.

Design for Different Types of Play

Each child plays differently. Some children enjoy active play or competitive games, while others may rather embark on imaginative adventures. When building a playground in a park or at a school, designers must take this into consideration. This means a good playground design might include slides and swings for active play, sandpits for sensory development, themed areas for imaginative play and large grassy areas for games and competitions.

Create Playground Zones

To make sure a playground design supports different types of play, some designers create playground zones. Each zone reflects a type of play with unique activities. For example, when you visit a park, basketball courts and other sports areas are separated from jungle gyms and swings. This allows for everything to be nearby, but also meet the needs of each child.

Consider Movement and Usability

Playgrounds should flow, making it easy for children to run from one zone to another. Although small spaces can be a challenge, there are always ways to make it safer for children to play. For example, to encourage flow, one might install paths leading between the zones and give children a sense of direction.

Work with Nature

Playground designs need to work with nature. Trees make great boundaries and climbing pieces for a child. Children also love to explore gardens, flowers, stumps and logs are they run around a playground. During childhood, sensory is crucial for development. By making nature a piece of a design, students can enjoy new colors, textures and smells.

Think About Accessibility

The best playgrounds are accessible for children with disabilities. It is important all children feel represented in a playground. Consider different disabilities when designing a playground and try to create something that allows a child to play without issues or support from an adult. 

Jerdon Enterprises builds playgrounds that encourage play among different types of children. To learn more about how we design playgrounds, contact us.