Seven Principles of Playground Design You Need to Know

Playgrounds play a decisive role in child’s development. It is one of the few environments where a child has the freedom to run, talk, explore, and do whatever they would like to. This is why designing a playground involves a lot of planning and arrangement. Are you aware of the principles to be considered when designing a public playground?

Here we will let you know about those basic principles that need to be implemented when designing a playground.

Safety comes first

Safety matters a lot when it comes to children. Making a playground safe involves the following factors;

• Location of the playground
• Age-appropriate activities
• The materials and sizing must meet the area regulations, through idea of local and federal codes
• Plan against playground deterioration that could pose a hazard

 Natural setting should be enhanced

The playground you are designing should accentuate the natural setting to help the little ones learn about the world. If you are in a rural setting, it’s better to place local plants to surround the playground. Even using local materials is a great option. To make the area safe, playground should be constructed with sleek materials that perfectly complement the cityscape.

Both disabled & non-disabled can play

Successful play spaces offer better play experience to both disabled & non-disabled kids. It’s important to design the play space in a manner so that everyone can participate or play. From parents to caretakers, everyone can gain easy access to play spaces.

Need to engage all senses

A good playground will engage your little one on more than one sensory level; sound, smell, touch, and sight.

Challenges

A playground is where kids can experiment, learn and explore. Therefore a good playground should be designed in a way so that you can install modern playground equipments. Consulting with a playground equipment manufacturer can help you with this. The playground should include places to play sports and other organized games.

Reshape the ground

Reshaping the site topography will create non-programmed spaces of different scales and types that will encourage the little ones to exercise their imagination. Hills, berms and other ground configurations create a powerful invitation to play.

Playgrounds should change as per requirement

Good playgrounds recognize the needs of both toddler and kindergartner. Ensure that you offer play options for all age groups. You should know that long lasting playgrounds incorporate activities for several learning levels.

Have you ever thought about what goes into the design of those playground structures you see at schools, parks and even in the backyards of residential living facilities and churches? There are seven (7) principles that should be considered when it comes to playground design: