When you mention playground equipment, most people will think of swings and slides. These traditional items of playground equipment have given children pleasure over the years and can still be found on playgrounds and play areas everywhere, However playground equipment is evolving and is much more versatile than it ever was. Though children will still love the traditional swings and slides, it is time to think outside the box and extend.
Children use playground equipment to keep fit, interact socially, use their imaginations and have fun. They are outside in the fresh air and this is a healthy alternative to sitting indoors watching television or playing on computer style games. Playground equipment however has to compete with these indoor attractions and has evolved to do this. Swings will always have a place in the outdoor playground environment, but they are much more colourful and have different shapes and sizes to add to the child’s enjoyment. Slides too are more versatile with colour, and are commonly seen mixed in with other items.
One of the more exciting advances in playground equipment is the children’s equivalent of an assault course, the trim trail. Even small children can have their own version of the trim trail and can pretend that they are like the adults they see on television tackling a more challenging commando style assault course. There is a stunning range of equipment available which can be mixed and matched, making this one of the most versatile types of playground equipment around. Young children will love the clatter bridges and stepping stones, while older children can enjoy the challenges of the mini climbing wall and the scramble net. This is very different from the old fashioned concept of playground equipment but will keep children fit and happy for many hours.
Another innovation in playground equipment is the variations available in play huts. Children have always loved a den, and these are now part of standard playground equipment. There are playhouses and play huts of many types. You can have a shop where children can take turns and play for hours. My own particular favourite is the range of pirate ships where children can let their imaginations run riot while climbing over the decks. There is even a sunken one available. These stimulate imagination, social skills and creative play. Many people will enjoy the yellow submarine, colourful and great for younger children.
Even simple markings on the ground can be part of playground equipment. Many of us played hopscotch and similar games on the street as children. Now the street is not regarded as a very safe place for children to play, but these games are alive and well and even more brightly coloured. Just ding a hop, skip and a jump over a caterpillar, crocodile or snake provides exercise and fun, as well as helping with counting skills.
Playground equipment is evolving with the times and rising to the challenges of television and video games by producing more and more exciting equipment.
So for a bespoke solution for Playground Equipment visit Playground Markings Direct.