There’s nothing as enjoyable as watching your children run, play, and explore the great outdoors. Still, you want them to be safe. As a parent, you understand the importance of keeping your little ones safe while allowing them the freedom to have fun at home. A backyard playground is just what they need! We’ll explore four tips for creating a safe and entertaining playground in your backyard. Read on to learn about building a safe playground in your backyard.
Choose the Right Equipment
Choosing the appropriate play equipment is crucial for your child’s safety. Though getting the tallest slide or most challenging climbing gear may be tempting, always consider your child’s age, abilities, and developmental stage when picking out equipment.
Research equipment that meets the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. These guidelines ensure playground equipment is safe and appropriate for children of different ages.
Choose structures with smooth surfaces, rounded edges, and secure fasteners to prevent injuries. High-quality materials like polyethylene plastic parts have many advantages, and sourcing them from a trusted Oregon supplier will ensure the safety of your playscape equipment.
Lay the Groundwork
Building a space for your kids to play requires using safe surfacing material. Falls are the leading cause of playground injuries, yet they are preventable by laying down a smooth, shock-absorbing surface.
Oregon has a damp climate, so materials like rubber mulch or recycled rubber tiles are ideal playground surfacing. They provide excellent cushioning and traction while draining well after rainfall.
Find the Perfect Spot
Before starting construction, choose the best location in your backyard for the playground. Be mindful of hazards like trees, fences, or water sources. Determine sunlight patterns throughout the day to avoid direct sunlight that can make play equipment dangerously hot.
You should be able to see your backyard playground from a window or door in your home. Your chosen spot should have ample room for the equipment and allow your children to run around freely.
Keep Up With Regular Maintenance
After setting up your backyard playground, you’ll have to perform regular maintenance in order to keep it safe for your kids. This is especially important when you consider the ever-changing weather of the Pacific Northwest.
Inspect the equipment regularly for damage or loose fasteners. Sand and seal wooden structures to prevent rot, decay, and splinters. Also, ensure metal parts are rust-free and oiled.
As a parent, you want to create an enjoyable play space for your children. By following these tips to build a safe playground in your backyard, you’ll nurture your children’s growth for years!