How to Design Children's Play Yards

A children's play yard is place for children to play by themselves, with other children or with an adult. Play yards can be placed in a backyard, housing complex, school or public park. When designing a play yard, think carefully about the ages of the children using it as well as about safety.

Instructions

1. Think about the ground where the yard will be placed. Most play yards are used outdoors. Some yards are put in a person's backyard in a spare corner of grass. Another play yard might be put on top of springy material designed to minimize a child's injuries should he fall. Make sure that any play yard you use takes this account. You can make design elements slightly higher if children have a soft place to fall.

2. Consider the ages of the children who will be using the play yard. Children as young as 2 and 3 may use the yard in a public playground or private home. Try to design separate elements for each age group. Make elements low to the ground if you are working on a design for very young children. Older children enjoy the thrill of sliding down a slide from up high or swinging on a swing that goes up nearly into the trees.

3. Vary the design elements. Incorporate different types of play equipment. Provide a place to hide inside the play yard where children can enjoy being away from others or sharing a secret in a special space with a friend. Incorporate a slide, at least two or three swings and swinging stairs that move as children walk over them.

4. Help children develop motor coordination skills. Provide a balance beam where they can test their ability to walk on a narrow ledge. Create an overhead set of rings that children can swing through and improve their upper body strength.

5. Use different design materials. Use metal in one area and ropes in another. Make a slide out of plastic and a clubhouse from wood. Vary colors as well. Children like bright colors. Paint one area red and another blue or purple. Use a yellow plastic hood to top a slide and green-dyed wood steps to connect one part of the play yard to another.

6. Make sure you meet all safety requirements. Above all else, a play yard should be safe. Make sure that all elements of the design are securely grounded. Metal parts should not sway. Nails should not stick out.

References

• Safety Precautions