Two Reasons to Celebrate February

Yes, the dreary winter season is still upon us here in southeast Texas, but the month of February still gives us plenty to smile about. (And no, we’re not talking about those delicious Valentine’s Day chocolates.)

For facility and recreational managers at parks, schools, churches and neighborhoods, February offers your community two reasons to get out and enjoy with your preschool playground equipment and other outdoor amenities:

February Is American Heart Month

Heart disease continues to be the No. 1 cause of death among both men and women in the United States, leading to 1 in every 4 deaths nationwide. The good news is that heart disease is highly preventable, and prevention starts with awareness.

The American Heart Association has declared February American Heart Month to raise awareness about heart disease and how it can be prevented. This month offers a perfect opportunity to reach out to your community and encourage them to make heart-healthy choices, including increasing their physical activity. Of course, your kids outdoor playground and other outdoor amenities offer an ideal location for getting healthy exercise while enjoying fresh air and the chance to engage with others!

How you can celebrate:

• Host a community event where families can learn about heart disease prevention from local healthcare providers.
• Schedule a “heart walk” around your neighborhood that finishes with a party at your playground.
• Encourage young families to take advantage of nice-weather days (or at least non-rainy days) by taking the kids to your playground for some heart-healthy activity.

February Is Recreational Therapy Month

February is also National Recreational Therapy Month, sponsored by the American Therapeutic Recreation Association. For people with illnesses or debilitating conditions, recreational therapy offers the opportunity to improve their psychological and physical health, recovery, and well-being through recreation and other activity-based interventions.

While not everyone has a condition requiring formal recreational therapy, this month offers an excellent opportunity to highlight the therapeutic benefits of activity even for healthy kids and adults.

How you can celebrate:

• Use your community newsletter, Facebook group, or other communications to remind your community that recreational activity can boost mood, improve sleep, and reduce stress.
• Host a “beat the winter blues” walk or fun run in your neighborhood to encourage families to get outdoors, even if the skies are gray.
• Remind your senior community members that physical activity can prevent disease, improve balance and stability, and increase life expectancy.

Wishing you and your community a happy, healthy February!

Whether your property is a municipal park, a school, a church, an apartment complex, or a neighborhood, your playground is a place for young families to come together as they enjoy fresh air and physical activity. To keep parents and their children engaged between visits to your play space, consider publishing a community newsletter.

Whether you publish weekly, monthly, or quarterly, a family newsletter will help you

• Strengthen the sense of community among the families you serve
• Engage parents by offering healthy living tips on nutrition, activity, and wellness
• Keep readers apprised of family-focused events at your facility and in the surrounding area
• Attract new visitors to your kids outdoor playground and other outdoor amenities

As you consider the content and format of your family newsletter, here are a few decisions to consider:

• Print or online: Online newsletters are less expensive to produce, but could get lost among the dozens of emails recipients get every day. Print newsletters cost more to print and distribute, but some studies show that they’re more likely to be read.
• Name: Come up with a catchy name for your publication, one that people will remember.
• Frequency: If you have a large, active community with plenty of activities on a regular basis, a weekly newsletter might serve you best. For smaller communities, a monthly or even quarterly publication might be a better choice.
• Length: Consider how long you want your newsletter to be, and keep the length consistent from issue to issue. Remember, if you opt for a print newsletter longer than two pages, your page count will need to be a multiple of 4.
• Format: Just like a newspaper or magazine, your newsletter will have regular sections and columns that will appear in every issue. Determine what you’ll want those sections to look like; for example, each issue might include a story on family health and wellness, a neighborhood family profile, a list of upcoming events, announcements (such as school closures), and a fun element like a seasonal trivia question or a pet-of-the-month photo.
• Images: Every newsletter needs good visuals, so plan in advance where your publication’s images will come from. Will you use stock photography, original photos, or a combination of the two? Keep in mind that if you use photos of people in your community (especially kids), you’ll need to obtain permission.
• Process: Decide who will create the content for each issue and what the editorial approval process will look like.
• Schedule: Set a delivery date for each issue you will publish this year, then work backwards from each date to determine when layout needs to be done, when content needs to be completed, when images need to be submitted, etc.

The beginning of a new year is a perfect time for launching a newsletter to engage, inform, and entertain the families in your community. Plan your product carefully, build your team, put your processes in place, and get ready to reap the benefits of a vibrant, engaging publication that your families will love.

It’s only January, and already this winter has brought sub-freezing temperatures and even some snow to the southeast Texas area. With two more months until the first day of spring, it’s likely that there more wintry weather is on the way, and it’s not too late to protect the plant life in your kids outdoor playground area. Here are a few tips for making sure your trees, shrubs, and other plants around will be prepared for the chill and ready to bloom when spring rolls around.

Trim and prune trees. Winter is a great time to cut away branches that block views or that may be in danger of breaking off and creating a safety hazard. Pruning also promotes faster regrowth in the spring and gives root systems a chance to strengthen.

Keep roots warm. Adding an extra layer of mulch will give root systems additional insulation against the winter cold and helps sustain soil moisture.

Continue watering. Even though the above-ground portion of trees and plants may be dormant, root systems are still active and will continue to grow if they have an adequate supply of water.

Be ready for freezing temperatures. If your trees and shrubs are well mulched, they probably have adequate protection against the occasional light freeze. If temperatures are projected to fall into the 20s, make sure plants are well watered ahead of time — the water will actually act as an insulator — and cover them with old sheets, burlap, painter’s drop cloths, or or a similar fabric, but never with plastic.

Anchor plant coverings. If you need to cover plants, make sure your coverings reach all the way to the ground, and anchor them with bricks or rocks to protect against wind and keep heat inside.

 

Happy winterizing!

While families with children and young, active adults have traditionally been the target markets for community parks and recreational facilities, the “graying” of America is inspiring some bold new approaches. According to the most recent U.S. Census, 14.9 percent of the population in 2015 was age 65 or older, representing 47.8 million older adults. More of these seniors are choosing to “age in place” — remain in their homes of choice rather than transitioning to senior living facilities — which generates a greater demand for senior-oriented activities and services from local parks and rec facilities.

According to a recent survey by the National Recreation and Park Association, those demands are being heard loud and clear. Nine out of 10 agencies now dedicate programs, facilities, and programming to older adults. And 71 percent of those agencies characterize themselves as the leader or one of the leaders offering services and programming for older adults in their communities.

Diverse Services for a Diverse Group

While we tend to think of “seniors” as a single bloc, this demographic is actually a highly diverse group with an equally diverse array of needs and interests. According to the survey, parks and rec agencies are offering a varied slate of offerings for their senior patrons. Ninety-one percent of respondents offer exercise classes, and other offerings include

• Field trips, tours, and group vacations: 70%
• Arts & crafts classes: 67%
• Volunteer opportunities in rec centers: 58%
• Special events for seniors: 58%
• Group walks: 53%
• Volunteer opportunities in parks: 48%
• Employment opportunities (leading classes, etc.): 47%
• Group nature activities: 38%
• Cooking and nutrition classes: 36%
• Mentoring opportunities: 14%

Serving a Broad Age Range

While the U.S. Census defines “seniors” as those age 65 and older, parks and rec agencies are targeting their senior programs to those as young as 50. “This reflects not only the fact that older working Americans themselves have unique needs that park and recreation agencies can meet,” the report states, “but also represents an opportunity to keep these people connected with park and recreation after their children have left home and they may have become less active.” Forty-four percent of respondents have a minimum age of 50 for their senior programs, and 40 percent have a minimum age of 55.

Health and Wellness Rules

As seniors age, staying healthy and active becomes a priority, and parks and rec agencies are stepping in to help. Three-fourths of survey respondents offer one or more evidence-based wellness programs for older adults, including tai chi, fall prevention, diabetes prevention and self-management, and Arthritis Foundation programs.

Assessing the Demand

How do these agencies discover what older adults in their communities want and need from them? According to the survey, most respondents say they get direct response from current and potential users through

• Surveys of community members: 73%
• Target marketing and outreach: 60%
• Community engagement at senior housing communities: 33%
• Community engagement at faith-based organizations: 13%

To learn more about trends in senior programming among parks and recreation agencies, see the National Recreation and Park Association’s report Healthy Aging in Parks Survey

In today’s high-tech, digital-obsessed environment, some may be tempted to write off the local neighborhood community center as an anachronism. With such an abundance of resources available online, many of us may wonder whether we really need these facilities at all.

Yet according to a recent survey by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the demand for community-center services is stronger than ever, across all generations. “While traditionally these agencies have brought a focus of fitness and fun to their local community members of all ages,” the NRPA says, “now many also include healthy living classes, computer and internet availability, and older adult transportation, just to name a few.”

According to the poll, Americans are not only supporting their local community centers — they’re demanding more “nontraditional” services that go beyond the usual after-school programs and aquatic facilities:

• 51 percent would like to see their local centers offer healthy living classes.
• 46 percent want programming for older adults.
• 45 percent want nature-based activities.
• 43 percent want access to computers and the internet.
• 41 percent want inclusive facilities for all abilities and all needs.
• 38 percent want health clinics and services.

Even more surprising is the outcome that shows Millennials supporting community center services just as strongly as — if not more so than — their Gen X and Baby Boomer counterparts. 57 percent of the Millennials surveyed want fitness facilities at their local centers, 53 percent want healthy living classes, and 50 percent want out-of-school time programming.

For more information about the results, visit the NRPA’s blog post.

Accessible Playground and Inclusive Playground:

While the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) has been the law of the land since 1990, facilities managers of parks, churches, neighborhoods, and other properties are still figuring out how their playgrounds can best comply. They also realize that, regulations aside, offering a fun, engaging experience for kids of all abilities is just the right thing to do. Accessible Playground and Inclusive Playground are good for the families they serve, good for the community as a whole, and ultimately good for business.

As you explore different resources to learn more about accommodating kids with disabilities on your kids outdoor playground, you’ve probably come across the words “accessible” and “inclusive.” You may have wondered what the difference is between the two terms … or do they mean the same thing?

The answer is the two terms do have different meanings.

Playground equipment is accessible if it is usable by kids of any and all ability levels. Or to phrase it another way, it has no barriers that would prevent kids with disabilities from entering the grounds, accessing different elements, or navigating the landscape. For example, an accessible playground would have no barriers at the entrance or along pathways and would offer ramps leading to elevated areas.

Inclusive and Accessible Playground:

A playground is inclusive if it’s designed to encourage engagement and participation by children with disabilities. It goes beyond simply ensuring access and embodies a commitment to offering a fun day of play for all little ones, regardless of their physical condition. For example, an inclusive playground would offer a mix of activities that ensure kids who can’t slide or climb still have fun activities available to them. It also encourages social engagement among all visitors instead of isolating “special” elements in one area.

So if you’re looking at building a new accessible playground or replacing an old one, whether you opt for “accessible” or “inclusive” depends on the needs of your community, the space available, and of course, your budget. If your primary concern is complying with the ADA, taking steps to make your play space accessible will likely help you steer clear of problems. Inclusivity involves going one step further and requires a greater commitment of resources. If an inclusive playground is your goal, you may need to do some convincing to get the necessary funds allocated to your cause.

Of course, every facility’s needs and situation is different, and we’re always happy to help in Accessible Playgrounds. If you need some advice on accessibility and/or inclusivity features for your playground, just give us a call at (713) 939-9888.

We’re at the time of year that’s abuzz with activity … most of it indoors. Between shopping in crowded malls, attending functions, and baking, decorating, and wrapping at home, many families find fresh air and sunlight hard to come by during the holiday season.

But many health and wellness experts tell us that outdoor activity is just what we need this time of year. Cloudy days and colder temperatures leave us at a higher risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that tends to occur during winter months, and spending time outdoors can help ease the symptoms. The holidays can also be a stressful time for parents and kids alike, and outdoor activity is a natural stress-reliever.

And of course, let’s not forget that staying active helps burn off those extra calories from Christmas cookies and eggnog!

Fortunately, here in southeast Texas, our mild winter weather (last week’s snow notwithstanding!) is outdoor-activity friendly. Here are five activities to share with families in your community to encourage more “together time” in the great outdoors this December:

• Caroling: Get a group of parents and kids together and roam the neighborhood singing holiday carols. It’s a great way to get to know other families in the community, and singing also releases feel-good hormones like oxytocin.
• Winter Family Walks: Even if it’s a little nippy outside, the whole family can still enjoy an afternoon or evening walk. Just remember to bundle up appropriately, and enjoy a round of steamy cocoa when you return.
• Take a (Nature) Hike: Head to one of our wonderful local nature centers — like the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center or Brazos Bend State Park — and learn about nature while you enjoy the fresh air.
• Picnicking: Neighborhood preschool playground equipment, community parks, and church common areas are perfect locations for family picnics, even when there’s a chill in the air. Remember to dress appropriately, and be sure to bring along a thermal container filled with your hot beverage of choice.
• Outdoor Family Games: Outdoor games like horseshoes and ring toss aren’t just for the summertime. Tote your equipment to your neighborhood park, and invite other families to join in the fun.

Happy holidays to all!

Your church is the pride of your community, a friendly place where families come to worship, learn, engage with each other, and enjoy a respite from their hectic lives. Adding a playground equipment to your other amenities can enhance your image in the community, attract new families to your congregation, and offer additional benefits for the parents and kids who use it. If you’re considering building a playground or upgrading your current equipment, here are five good reasons to move forward.

1. A church playground is inviting.

If your kids outdoor playground can be seen from the street, even partially, it sends a positive message about your faith community. It tells everyone who drives by that your church is family friendly, that you care about children, and that fun and recreation are an important part of church life for your congregation.

2. A church playground promotes health benefits.

Studies have shown that kids who enjoy active outdoor playtime do better in school, have improved attention spans, and experience less stress. By offering children a bright, engaging, safe place to enjoy fresh air and sunshine while experiencing the joy of movement, you’re promoting a healthier lifestyle for your littlest members.

3. A church playground gets kids away from screens.

Even small kids are suffering from the same “screen addiction” as their parents, spending hour after hour staring at TV, computer, or smartphone screens. When they come to your church playground, they have the chance interact with other kids and their parents on a personal, face-to-face level.

4. A church playground promotes fellowship.

When kids interact at a playground, they learn teamwork, empathy, and appreciation for the things that make their playmates special. Even activities as simple as deciding who goes first on the slide can benefit the development of interactive skills that will serve them well later in life.

5. A church playground attracts young families.

If you’re trying to attract younger families to your church, installing a bright, modern playground is a perfect first step. Not only will young moms and dads feel welcome in your congregation, but they’ll also be more likely to stay after services and engage with others while their kids enjoy some outdoor fun.

 

If you’ve been thinking about improving your church landscape with a new playground — or replacing an old one — there’s never been a better time to move forward. And if we can help, give us a call at (713) 939-9888 and let’s talk about what we can create for you!

“We’d love to have a playground — we just don’t have the space.” Next to lack of budget, lack of space is one of the most commonly heard objections when church, neighborhood, or school groups propose adding a playground. But with a little creativity (and the right partner, of course), you can build a fun, engaging play area even if space is in short supply. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Choose a predesigned structure made for small spaces. Many predesigned playground structures are optimized to make the most of a small area. For example, the MaxPlay 3 model packs in 11 play elements with just a 29’x31’ footprint.
2. Make the most of freestanding pieces. Take a modular approach and select a few multifunctional freestanding pieces to offer multiple play elements in a compact area.
3. Work with landscape elements. Look for ways to incorporate trees and other natural elements in your play space design. As an added bonus, you’ll help kids develop a special appreciation for the beauty of nature while they’re having fun.
4. Have a playground custom-built for your facility. This option is especially useful for very small, oddly-shaped, or otherwise limited spots. Have an experienced design team put together a custom structure that’s tailor made for your space and the kids and families you serve.

The AllPlay team is at your service to create the perfect playground equipment for your church, school, or neighborhood park — no matter how much space you have. Just give us a call at (713) 939-9888 and let’s talk about what we can design for you!

Even though the flood waters from Hurricane Harvey have long since receded, the need for support across our area remains massive. As our communities continue to recover, families with children are among those with the greatest needs. Here are a few ways you can help Houston’s kids get the support they need as recovery efforts continue.

Save the Children

Hundreds of displaced families with young children are still being housed in shelters, and Save the Children is making sure they have what they need with family-friendly supplies and services. A donation of $15 will provide arts, crafts, and recreation supplies, and $500 will provide child-friendly play spaces for 100 displaced children. Click here to learn more about Save the Children’s relief efforts.

Houston Food Bank

Many displaced families with kids are struggling to provide for basic needs, and the Houston Food Bank is helping by distributing food and other supplies. Click here if you’d like to make a monetary donation, or you can bring food and other items to 535 Portwall. According to the Food Bank’s website, most-needed items include

• Canned, ready-to-eat vegetables and fruit with pull tops
• Protein in pouches or pull-top cans (tuna, beef stew, chili, canned chicken)
• Peanut butter
• Snacks (granola bars, breakfast bars, etc.)
• Toiletries
• Paper goods
• Diapers
• Cleaning supplies (mops, mop buckets, brooms, bleach wipes, bleach, garbage bags, bug spray)

Houston Children’s Charity

When displaced families are able to return to their homes, many will have no furniture to come back to, due to destruction from flood waters and mold. Houston Children’s Charity is teaming up with Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa to ensure that each child has a bed of his or her own waiting for them when the family is able to return home. Their goal is to raise $500,000 to purchase 5,000 beds; click here to make a donation.

The people of Houston have shown tremendous community spirit in helping each other recover from this disaster, especially our neighbors with little ones. Let’s keep the spirit alive until all children have what they need to learn, grow, play, and just be kids again.

On August 25-27, Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc on southeast Texas, causing historic flooding and leaving many areas in shambles. If your school, park, or neighborhood playground was affected by the flood, here are a few tips to help you bring the fun back while ensuring the safety of kids and families.

Inspect All Equipment

If your kids outdoor playground was submerged in flood waters — even just a few inches — it’s important that you inspect it carefully before allowing kids to play on it. Here are a few things to look out for:

• Water may be trapped in double-walled components like slides and climbers. If a piece of equipment is holding water, it needs to be drained before it’s safe to play on. Drill a small hole in a low, unused location (such as the very bottom of a slide) and allow the water to drain.
• Erosion may have occurred around the base of the equipment. As flood water drains, it can carry large amounts of soil with it, and erosion can make playground equipment unstable. If you notice significant erosion, keep the playground closed and contact the equipment manufacturer.
• Hardware such as nuts and bolts may have become compromised. The force of flood waters can loosen and even sweep away hardware elements. Inspect each piece of equipment carefully for loose or missing hardware, and tighten or replace as needed.

Clean It Up

Flood waters can contain numerous toxins, so playgrounds that have been exposed to flood waters must be thoroughly cleaned before they can be safely used. Pressure washers are a good choice for this task; just be careful with your pressure settings to avoid damaging the equipment.

Check Moving Parts

Moving equipment like merry-go-rounds can trap debris and sand in their internal mechanisms if they’re submerged in flood waters. Check each piece of equipment by moving it around a bit. If it doesn’t move normally, try flushing the moving parts with clean water. If that fixes the problem, let the equipment dry and then lubricate according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the problem persists, contact the manufacturer.

Check Safety Surfacing

Pay special attention to your safety surfacing, as it’s the component most likely to suffer flood damage. Once you’ve removed any large debris such as branches and trash, inspect the area for missing, torn, or otherwise damaged surfacing. Different types of surfacing require different approaches to cleaning and restoration, so review your manufacturer’s recommendations, and contact them if you have questions.

Keep Records

You will need documentation for insurance claims and other purposes. Take photos and videos of any damage as soon as you notice it, and make a list of all actions taken, such as cleaning or replacement of components.

 

If you have any additional questions about restoring your playground after the flood, please feel free to call us at (713) 939-9888.

With Labor Day just a couple of weeks away, fall sports programs at your school or in your community will soon be ramping up again. While organized team sports offer valuable opportunities for kids to learn teamwork, responsibility, and sportsmanship, they can also carry the risk of serious injury: in the year 2013 alone, 1.24 million kids were treated in emergency rooms as the result of sports injuries.

Keeping kids safe on the field or the court is a group effort. Parents and the kids themselves bear part of the responsibility, as do coaches and team organizers. As you prepare to get your teams in gear, keep in mind these five safety pointers:

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. It’s still plenty hot here in southeast Texas, and even when the weather begins to cool off, adequate hydration is a must. Make sure plenty of fresh water is available before, during, and after all practices, and schedule water breaks for every 15-20 minutes. It’s also important that kids learn to recognize the early signs of dehydration, including headache, dry lips, dizziness, and cramps.
2. Enforce a zero-tolerance policy on “dirty play.” When adrenaline is running high and the game is on the line, some kids may be tempted to bend the rules and take cheap shots to gain an advantage. Make sure all players on the team (and their parents) understand the importance of fair play and respect for others, and address infractions promptly and appropriately.
3. Encourage kids to speak up about injuries. Sometimes kids will try to “tough it out” when they suspect something is wrong; some may even see it as a sign of weakness to admit being injured. Have your coaches emphasize to the kids that their health is more important than winning any game, and let them know it’s OK to speak up any time they suspect an injury.
4. Train coaches in injury prevention and first aid. All coaches should receive basic training in the prevention, recognition, and initial treatment of sports-related injuries. Make sure that a complete first aid kit is readily available at all times, and that it contains supplies appropriate to the sport (remember to check expiration dates regularly).
5. Check surfaces. Uneven surfaces, potholes, and obstructions pose unnecessary injury risks for the whole team. Before every practice, make sure someone walks the entire field or court to ensure that the playing surface is free of hazards.

For more information on preventing kids’ sports injuries, check out the Safe Kids Worldwide sports page at safekids.org/sports. By taking a few precautions and putting some sensible rules and policies in place, you can ensure that the fun continues all season long — and keep injuries at bay.

With vacations winding down and school starting up again, church activities will soon be in full swing, including children’s ministries. As you plan your activities for the first few weeks, keep in mind that the kids may be feeling a bit unsettled as they adjust to new schedules, new teachers, and possibly even new schools. You may also have some new kids in your class who moved to the area over the summer and who may be nervous about joining the group.

To help kids ease into the school year and build camaraderie, here are a few fun activity ideas:

Create a “Prayer Hands” Banner

This is a perfect activity for helping your kids “make their mark” as they begin a new school year. Get a large piece of fabric that’s thick enough to paint on. Let each child dip his or her hand into a paper plate of paint (make sure to use a paint that washes off easily) and make a hand print on the banner. Then let each child sign his or her name next to the hand print and write a short prayer for the class for the coming year. Hang the banner in your classroom and re-read the prayers at the end of the year.

Pack Backpacks for Kids in Need

Host a school supplies drive at your church and collect backpacks, pencils, notebooks, glue sticks, scissors, crayons and other items for kids in need. Have your class pack the backpacks while you talk about gratitude for the blessings you have and the importance of helping others. Let each child write a note for the recipient wishing them a good school year and slip it into the backpack.

Get Outside and Get Active

In addition to letting your class enjoy free play time on your kids outdoor playground, you can help them burn off some extra energy with classic outdoor games. Think hopscotch, Simon Says, jump rope/double dutch, Red Light-Green Light, Red Rover, and other time-honored activities.

Bring Bible Stories to Life

Divide the class into groups of three or four and let each group choose a Bible story to turn into a skit. Help them decide how to tell their chosen story; you might even bring a box of random items and let the kids exercise their creativity in creating costumes and props. When each group is ready, have them act out their skit for the class, and film it with your smartphone so that they can see their own performances.

Happy back-to-school season!

In our previous two blog posts, we kicked off our series “How to Plan a Neighborhood Park Your Community Will Love” by reviewing the basic principles of park design and strategies for building support among your residents.

Today, in the final post of the series, we roll up our sleeves and get into the project planning phase, where you’ll create the plan that will take you from “square one” all the way through to your opening day … and beyond.

Below we’ve given you some general guidelines for planning your park project, but this list is by no means comprehensive. If you haven’t managed a project like this before, you might want to consider hiring a consultant to help you get started and to provide guidance along the way. You may also want to look into project-management software applications, which make it easy to track your progress and keep all your documentation in one place.

Set Your Goal

Now that you have a clear concept of the park you want to build and have discussed it with your residents, the next step is to set your overall goal. Follow the lead of the best project managers and set a goal that’s SMART:

• Specific: Be very specific about what the end result of your project will be. How large will your park be? What amenities will be there? How will it serve your community? Who will benefit from it? What impact will it have on property values and demographics?
• Measurable: How will you know when you’ve arrived at your goal? What criteria will you meet? How will you measure your progress along the way?
• Achievable: Give the amount of time, money, and other resources available, can you and your team achieve this goal as you’ve defined it? If not, you might need to make some adjustments.
• Relevant: How will this park serve your community? Be sure to consider its impact in the near and distant future as well as the present.
• Time bound: When do you aim to have your park completed? It’s true that delays happen due to weather and other factors, but it’s important to have a completion date in mind. Remember, you can always adjust it if necessary.

Determine Milestones

Map out the significant achievements — the milestones — that will mark major steps in progress toward your goal. For your park, these might include preparing the ground, installing amenities, and completing landscaping.

Build a Deliverables List

Break down each milestone into specific tasks. For example, the milestone “Install Playground,” will include tasks such as applying for permits, selecting a builder, choosing a model, choosing the safety surfacing, scheduling installation, and other tasks. Be as specific and thorough as you can.

Build a Timeline

Now gather your list of tasks (you’ll have a lot of them) and build a timeline, keeping in mind that some milestones must be completed before work on others can begin. For example, you can’t build structures before the ground has been prepared, so build that dependency into your plan. Also, remember that contractors are not always available at the exact moment we need them, so consult your contractors to confirm their availability at the point in your timeline when their services are needed.

Get Started and Track Your Progress

Ready … set … GO! It’s time to start tackling those first deliverables as they appear on your timeline. Remember to always track your progress so that on any given day, you can tell exactly how far you are from achieving your goal. If delays happen (and they probably will), adjust your plan accordingly.

Celebrate!

Once your park is complete, remember to celebrate your success! Even small parks are big achievements, so remember to reward your team, and schedule a grand-opening event to welcome residents to their brand-new space. Include fun elements like food, face painting, live entertainment, games for the kids, and more. Put up streamers, balloons, and other eye-catching visuals to serve as an invitation for everyone to come join in the fun.

 

Good luck, and happy planning!

In our previous blog post, we kicked off our series “How to Plan a Neighborhood Park Your Community Will Love” by reviewing the basic principles of park design and sharing some tips on choosing the amenities for your outdoor space.

 

Of course, a vital part of the planning process is collaboration with the people who will be using and living alongside the space day after day: your residents. Here are a few strategies for building — and keeping — support among your residents all the way through to completion.

Start Early

To ensure support for your park, it’s important to involve residents as early in the process as possible. Remember that your initiative will impact everyone in the neighborhood — not just those who will use the space once it’s complete. Some of your residents, for example, might be concerned about how the addition will affect issues such as drainage, parking, and security. Be sure to address both benefits and possible challenges as you introduce the idea to your community.

Vary Your Approach

For soliciting resident input, remember that people have different preferences when it comes to how they express their opinions. Some prefer live “town hall”-type events, while others prefer the privacy of surveys. Make sure to incorporate at least two of the following methods in soliciting the opinions of the people in your community:

• Open meetings
• Focus groups
• Paper surveys
• Online surveys
• Phone surveys

Keep Them Posted

Keep your residents continuously updated on the progress of your neighborhood park project. You may want to start a Facebook page where you post regular updates on developments, delays, and your projected opening date. Encourage residents to follow the page so that they’re always in the loop.

 

In Part III of our series, we’ll talk about how to get your neighborhood park project buttoned up and ready to roll. Stay tuned!

New neighborhoods are springing up all over southeast Texas, and those that offer dedicated parks have an automatic advantage in attracting young, active families. If you’re still in the planning phase for your subdivision, think about including an outdoor space that gives neighbors a place to meet, to be active, and to enjoy the outdoors, with something for every member of the family. And if your neighborhood is already established, consider that adding a park will give you a competitive edge in enticing house-hunters.

In Part I of our series on planning community spaces, we’ll talk about the basics that every neighborhood  park needs.

Park Design Basics

According to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, neighborhood parks typically fit the following criteria:

• Between ¼ and ½ mile from neighborhood houses
• Not separated from neighborhood houses by major roads
• Free from physical barriers that would prevent walking access
• Designed for all ages and all groups to enjoy

How should you allocate the space in your new park? In its resource Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Guidelines, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) recommends that about 50 percent of your park’s space be dedicated to active recreation spaces, including your playground. The remaining half can be used “for passive activities, reserve, ornamentation, and conservation as appropriate.”

Choosing Amenities

Your playground equipment is just one of the many amenities that can make your park more attractive to residents of all ages, all year long. When choosing amenities, keep in mind the space you have available, the size of your neighborhood, the demographics of your residents, and of course, your budget.

The list of amenities to choose from is vast and varied; here are a few of the most popular options:

• Walking paths
• Benches and picnic tables
• Lighting
• Trash receptacles
• Shelters
• Fountains or ponds
• Dog waste stations
• Open fields for sports or other organized play
• Dedicated parking spaces

Of course, if your budget permits, more elaborate amenities such as swimming pools and tennis courts are also attractive possibilities. Make sure you have an idea of the funds available before you come up with your amenities list and begin reviewing your options.

In Part II of our series, we’ll talk about how to work with the residents of your neighborhood and invite their input into the park planning process. Stay tuned!

Now that school’s out, the kids in your community will be looking for ways to spend the long days between family vacations and summer camp. All too often, they turn to sedentary activities like playing video games and watching TV (not to mention that most popular of all kids’ summer activities, sleeping late!) instead of more active pursuits. And without recess and school sports to keep them moving, this lack of physical activity can take a toll on their health.

Now is the perfect time to get the families in your community to say “yes” to a more active summer, for both kids and adults. And could there a better hub for these activities than your playground area?

Here are a few ideas to share with your community for ensuring a healthier, more active summer for all:

• For adults and teens, organize a morning “boot camp” at your playground that mixes calisthenics (jumping jacks, pushups, etc.) with more lighthearted activities such as wheelbarrow races.
• For families with babies and toddlers, start a moms’ walking group and designate a stroller-friendly path around your grounds. Each walk can end with a series of “mommy and me” fitness activities, like the ones on this list from Parenting magazine.
• For families with school-age kids, give out “scorecards” that let them enter a star every time they log at least 30 minutes of active play at your playground, and offer rewards at the end of the summer for kids who accumulate the most stars.
• Organize special events like kite-flying meetups, field days, and fun runs to bring families together in the spirit of healthy activity.

When planning scheduled activities, remember that we’ll be dealing with that famous Texas heat, so morning or early evening times are best to avoid the risk of overheating.

With a little creativity and some help in spreading the word, you can encourage the families in your neighborhood to enjoy the healthiest, most active summer ever … and have some fun at the same time.

 

With summer nearly here, it won’t be long before kids and families begin flocking to your playground. While you get your equipment ready for the “summer rush,” you’ll also want to pay attention to the walkways and sidewalks around your play area. Poorly maintained walkways can detract from the eye appeal of your space and can even create safety hazards, and now is the time to make sure your paths are ready to do you proud all summer long.

For Safe, Beautiful Gravel Walkways …

• Weeds and other unwanted plant life can sprout up through the gravel and cause tripping hazards, making walkways unsafe for young visitors. Inspect your paths regularly and pull up any weeds as soon as you see them.
• If you’re creating a new gravel walkway, put down a layer of quality landscaping fabric first. This will prevent unwanted vegetation from sprouting up through the gravel.
• If you have an existing gravel walkway where weeds are a consistent problem, consider re-installing it with a layer of landscaping fabric underneath.
• Rake your walkway regularly to remove debris and ensure a smooth, level walking surface.
• Over time, gravel material can be kicked off the path and scattered onto the neighboring grass, causing your walkway to appear messy. You can prevent this by installing edging material to create a barrier and keep gravel in its place.
• If potholes appear, especially after a hard rain, fill the entire sunken area with fresh gravel (don’t just “borrow” material from another area of the walkway).

 

For Kid-Ready Concrete Walkways and Sidewalks

• Sweep concrete walkways regularly to keep your space looking clean and orderly.
• Repair any large cracks in concrete or pavement as soon as you notice them, as these can become serious tripping hazards.
• Power-wash your walkways on a regular basis; if stains appear, clean them up immediately.
• Applying a sealer isn’t strictly necessary, but it will help keep your sidewalks looking clean and beautiful.
• If weeds begin to spring up in cracks or gaps, pull them immediately. If weeds continue to be a problem, look for an environmentally friendly and kid-safe weed-control solution.

 

Remember, your walkways and sidewalks are an important part of your play space. By maintaining them well, you’ll create a safe, attractive area that keeps families coming back all summer long.

Our playgrounds offer kids and families a secure, engaging space where they can enjoy fresh air while reaping the benefits of physical activity. Unfortunately, with all that activity comes the inevitable risk of injury. To ensure an enjoyable visit to our playgrounds for every child, every time, we can offer parents clear, easy-to-follow guidelines on the safe, appropriate use of our grounds and our equipment.

The Legal Angle

No one likes to think about the possibility of a lawsuit resulting from a child being injured on your playground. But legal realities are a fact of life, and if a suit should arise, having posted the appropriate safety signage in full view of visitors can help your case by showing the court you‘ve taken steps to ensure a safe experience.

The Official Word

Both the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have issued recommendations regarding playground safety signage. ASTM’s recommendations are located in the Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment for Public Use, and you can find the CPSC’s guidelines in the Public Playground Safety Handbook.

Types of Playground Safety Signage

Supervision Advisory: A simple sign reading “Adult supervision is recommended” reminds visitors that your playground is not intended for unsupervised play.

Age Range of Equipment Users: For a safe and enjoyable playground experience, it’s important that children use only equipment that is age-appropriate for them. Labeling your equipment with age ranges gives the parent clear guidance on whether a particular activity is safe for his or her child.

Hot Surface Warning: During our sweltering Texas summers, it’s possible for playground equipment to become so hot that it creates a burn hazard. A hot surface warning label advises the parent or caregiver to test the surfaces of slides, swings, and other equipment before allowing the child to play on them.

Strangulation Warning: Loose clothing, drawstrings, necklaces, straps, and other elements can present a strangulation risk if they get caught on equipment during play. Strangulation warning labels advise parents and caregivers to remove any and all strangulation hazards before allowing the child to play on the equipment.

Surfacing Warnings: Any equipment installed on a hard surface should carry a surfacing warning alerting parents to the risk of injuries from falls.

Where Signage Should Be Placed

Place all safety signs in locations where they are readily visible and where they can alert the viewer in time to take action if needed. They can be affixed to the equipment or posted on free-standing posts within the playground but outside of use zones.

Also, remember to keep trees, bushes and other plants trimmed so as not to obscure the visibility of your safety signs.

Playground equipment safety is a team effort, and by presenting clear, easy-to-follow safety guidelines, we can help our communities enjoy a safe, engaging experience every time they visit.

As schools face increasing pressure to pack more academic subjects into every day, recess is all too often the first casualty. To the casual observer, it’s an easy decision: “why give kids a free period to ‘just run around’ when they could be inside learning,” right? But research from the American Academy of Pediatrics tells a different story: research is a critical component of every child’s cognitive, emotional, physical, and social welfare.

Recess improves focus

In a study sponsored by Georgia State University, researchers approached a school with a no-recess policy and gained permission for two fourth-grade classes to have recess twice a week. The result? Most of children in the test group — including several with ADD — were more focused and less fidgety on recess days than on non-recess days.

Recess is good for the brain … and the body

The exposure to natural light that kids receive during recess stimulates the pineal gland. Situated near the center of the brain, the pineal gland produces melatonin, an important hormone for regulating sleep cycles and other functions in the central nervous system. Natural light is also important for absorbing Vitamin D, which helps build strong immune systems, and for developing healthy eyesight.

Recess builds social skills

When kids have free time outside of the classroom, they have the opportunity to socialize, communicate, and cooperate with their classmates in an unstructured setting. And when recess involves play on a playground, the vital skills of sharing and turn-taking become part of the experience.

Recess inspires creativity

When kids are free from the rigors of the classroom, their imaginations have space to grow and develop. The longer the recess, the more beneficial it is for creative development: Informal studies show that it takes kids about 15-20 minutes to decide what to play and who will be involved, and only then can truly imaginative play begin to happen.

 

So if your school administration is considering getting rid of recess, remind them of these key benefits to the development and well-being of your students. And if you’re looking to enhance the recess experience with modern, engaging, safe playground equipment, give us a call at 713-939-9888. If you can dream it, we can build it!

When many of us were kids, playtime involved riding bikes, running around playing tag, and yes, enjoying the equipment from our local playground equipment supplier. For most kids today, playtime involves sitting in front of a glowing screen, sometimes for hours at a time. Most parents would agree that spending time with technology not the best option for their kids, but research shows that it could actually be making them sick.

 

The good news is that there’s a solution to all these tech-related health hazards: more time playing outdoors at the local playground!

Computer Vision Syndrome

The American Optometric Association has identified Computer Vision Syndrome, or digital eye strain, as a group of eye-related problems resulting from prolonged use of computers, tablets, e-readers, and smartphones. Symptoms include headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck and shoulder pain. Some pediatric eye doctors have seen a connection between heavy use of electronic devices and the risk for early myopia in kids.

 

Why kids outdoor playground make a difference: While interacting with computers, tablets, and other electronic devices forces children to focus on objects close to their faces, preschool playground equipment allows them broaden their fields of vision and focus on objects at all distances (near, mid-range, and far).

Juvenile Obesity

Because video games and other forms of electronic entertainment involve sitting for long periods, too much screen time can put kids at risk for juvenile obesity. Kids are also more likely to indulge in high-calorie, high-fat snacks while they’re distracted by what’s happening on the screen.

 

Why playgrounds make a difference: Running around at the local playground offers calorie-burning cardiovascular benefits, while activities like climbing, crawling, and swinging work muscles in different areas of the body. And while kids are busy being active, they’re less likely to reach for sugary or high-fat snacks.

Behavioral Problems

In 2010, Dr. Larry Rosen of California State University led a study involving 1,000 parents of children ages 4–18 to explore a connection between media consumption and ill-being (which he defined as “psychological problems, behavioral problems, attention difficulties, and physical symptomology”). “What we found was astounding,” Dr. Rosen reports. “For all ages, even after controlling for all possible alternative explanations, total media usage predicted all forms of ill-being.”

 

Why playgrounds make a difference: Many studies show that time spent outdoors, especially in greener environments, can improve mood, promote creativity, and reduce the risk of depression in both kids and adults. Physical activity has shown to have many of the same effects, making our playgrounds doubly important for kids’ psychological and emotional well being.

 

While some may question the need for playgrounds in today’s high-tech world, they offer the families in your community a fun, active, healthy break from glowing screens (and the health hazards they pose). By encouraging more family time at your playground, you’re helping parents raise happier, healthier kids while building the bonds that make every community stronger. And that’s one healthy combination!

The first day of spring is just a few weeks away … although you might say that the season arrived early here in southeast Texas, given the warm temperatures we’ve been seeing! Spring is the perfect time to spruce up the greenery around your kids outdoor playground and enhance the natural surroundings for kids and parents alike.

Spending time in a greener environment isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it benefits kids as well as grownups on many different levels. Studies have shown that spending time in nature builds kids’ confidence, improves creativity and imagination, teaches responsibility, and stimulates their brains by engaging all their senses. For parents, being around trees and other greenery has a calming effect, offering a welcome break from fast-paced, technology-packed routines.

Of course, lush greenery also enhances the eye-appeal of your playground equipment, enticing kids and young families to visit more often and to stay longer. If the green areas around your play equipment could use a little TLC, this is the perfect time to spruce them up.

Safety First

Remember that anything you plant will be accessible by little ones, so keep these safety tips in mind:

• Avoid plants with thorns that can cut or scrape little ones as they run past or fall into branches.
• Avoid plants that produce small berries; even if nonpoisonous, they could pose a choking hazard.
• Steer clear of plants that are prone to attracting stinging insects.

What to Plant

If you’re ready to add some fresh life to the green areas around your preschool playground equipment, here are some terrific options for planting this spring:

 

Shade Trees: Trees offer not only health-boosting oxygen, but also the shade that becomes so important during our hot Texas summers. Think about adding some different varieties of oaks or elms to add color and variety to your landscape.

 

Hardy Shrubs: These little green gems let you create paths and segmentations without blocking visitors’ views … not to mention keeping bouncing balls from rolling into the street. They’re also great for games of hide-and-seek. Consider boxwood or another hardy variety of shrub to make sure it stands up to heavy traffic … and occasional tackles by rambunctious little ones.

 

Vines: Well-placed vines offer a great way to beautify vertical structures such as chain-link fences or to use as ground cover in shady areas. Some vine varieties grow more aggressively and require more frequent trimming than others; keep this in mind when deciding which ones to plant.

 

Flowering Plants: Plant flowers in lower-traffic areas where they’re less likely to be trampled by little guests. A colorful bed of blooms near the entrance to your playground adds eye appeal that will help attract visitors. Choose hardy varieties that require little maintenance, such as yarrow, petunias, and daisies.

 

Happy planting!

We all know that outdoor play benefits cardiovascular health and offers kids a much-needed break from electronic media … but did you know that’s just the beginning?

 

As you encourage the families in your community to visit your playground, take the opportunity to educate them on the lesser-known benefits of playing outdoors:

Improved Attention Spans

According to a study reported in the American Journal of Public Health, time spent outdoors, particularly in greener settings, improved symptoms in children with ADHD, regardless of gender, socioeconomic factors, or environment (urban versus rural). Even when children engaged in the same type of activity indoors and outdoors (running, climbing, etc), it was the outdoor activity that showed a positive effect on ADHD symptoms.

Enhanced Social Skills

Because playground equipment must be shared, kids must work out among themselves who gets to do what, when, and for how long. Not everyone can go down the slide at the same time, for example, so kids must learn how to cooperate — how to make sure everyone gets a turn and how to wait for theirs. Even when it looks like they’re “just running around,” they’re actually learning the ABCs of cooperation, fair play, and respect for others.

Improved Vision

Better vision through outdoor play? According to two separate studies in Australia, the answer is yes. Data from the Orinda Longitudinal Study of Myopia showed that children of myopic parents who spend sufficient time outside are at only slightly greater risk for developing myopia than children without myopic parents. And results from the Sydney Myopia Study suggest that greater time spent outside can override the myopia risks associated with near work and schooling.

 

The precise reason for this benefit is not yet clear, but it could involve pupil constriction in the brighter outdoor light, which results in greater depth of focus, or it could be a direct effect of the light exposure itself. Whatever the reason, parents in your community who are concerned with their kids’ visual health should be encouraged to take advantage of your playground and other outdoor amenities.

Decreased Stress

Yes, kids can have stress, especially those who have busy schedules both within and outside of school. Studies show that regular outdoor play can alleviate symptoms of stress and also ward off more serious concerns such as depression and anxiety.

Vitamin D

Spending time in the sunshine — even during winter when the sun is not as warm — boosts kids’ Vitamin D levels. This important vitamin can help young bodies ward against bone problems and heart disease in the future and can even boost mood, energy levels, and memory. Studies show that even 10-15 minutes of outdoor exposure can boost Vitamin D levels and the related benefits.

 

So the next time someone asks why your community needs a playground, tell them you’re providing a vital resource to help families raise happier, healthier kids — in more ways than one!

February is upon us and as Valentine’s Day approaches, hearts are popping up everywhere — stores, schools, shopping malls, and offices. But this is also the month to turn our attention to our real hearts — the ones that pump our blood — and making sure they stay healthy.

February was declared American Heart Health Month in 2009 in an effort to raise awareness around the national problem of heart disease and high blood pressure. Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in both men and women in the United States, and 1 in 3 American adults has high blood pressure.

Doctors agree that regular physical activity, along with a healthy diet, is one of the most effective ways of preventing heart disease, and those active habits begin in childhood. A team of researchers at University of California, Riverside found in a 2015 study that kids who exercise early in life are more likely to exercise as adults … and reap the heart-healthy benefits.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children get at least one hour of physical activity every single day. And what better place to enjoy that activity than a playground?

Your playground offers the children of your school, church, or neighborhood a safe, controlled environment that engages their imaginations while they enjoy the thrill of being physically active. It’s also a natural gathering place where families come together … and we all know that being active is more fun when you do it with a friend.

So what can you do to encourage heart-healthy habits in your community? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Send out a flyer to raise awareness of American Heart Health Month and encourage families to make one commitment that will help them be more active, like taking daily family walks.
• Host a “healthy hearts” event at your playground featuring health screenings, healthy food tastings, workshops on heart health, and fun activities for the kids like flag football and dance-a-thons.
• If you have a newsletter, devote your February issue to American Heart Health Month and share healthy recipes and family activity ideas.
• Create a “course” that takes kids through your playground and includes cardio activities between equipment stations, such as jumping jacks or jogging in place.
• Start a group of families who meet at your playground once a week — maybe Saturday or Sunday mornings — and suggest activities for both kids and parents to get their hearts pumping while they enjoy the camaraderie.

 

Wishing you and your community a heart-healthy February!

As we know, outdoor play is vital for the development of all children, and we need to ensure that their outdoor experiences are as safe as possible. Playground safety surfacing reduces the risk of injuries by providing a cushion that absorbs the impact of a fall.

 

To provide effective playground surfacing, it’s important to use shock-absorbing materials that are inspected regularly. The most popular safety surfacing options include engineered wood fiber, rubber mulch, poured-in-place rubber, and synthetic turf.

 

If you choose a loose surface for your playground, you may be wondering about the practical differences between engineered wood and rubber. The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified both wood fiber and rubber mulches as “appropriate surfacing” for playgrounds, so it comes down to which option better suits your needs. Let’s take a closer look at both.

 

Engineered wood fiber is manufactured from fresh wood and provides an all-weather surface. Because of the way it’s processed, the fiber contains no materials or debris that could be harmful to kids. Engineered wood fiber complies with ASTM F 1951 guidelines for public playground surface accessibility and, even though it’s a loose surface, is wheelchair accessible. It’s also among the more cost effective and sustainable playground surfaces available in the market.

 

Rubber mulch is made mostly from re-processed tires. Studies have shown that, inch-for-inch, rubber mulch offers greater shock-absorbing capacity, and it provides a softer landing than wood. It also lasts longer and requires less maintenance; because the material is denser than wood, it’s less likely to be washed away in heavy rain or to blow away in windy weather. When considering rubber mulch, your budget will be a factor, as it tends to cost more per square foot than wood fiber.

 

Remember, your playground is a long-term investment, so it’s important to carefully review your options for each element, including safety surfacing. Check your budget and also consider your maintenance schedule, as some options require more maintenance than others. It’s also vital to follow all local laws that pertain to safety surfacing and to have your playground inspected regularly by a Certified Playground Safety Inspector.

 

If you need more assistance deciding which safety surface is right for you, give us a call at (713) 939-9888 and we’ll be happy to help.

 

The coldest days of winter are just ahead of us, and with them come additional challenges of playground safety and maintenance. Research shows that kids who play outside during winter tend to be healthier than those who stay indoors, so we need to make sure those kids have a safe place to play throughout the season. Paying extra attention to playground maintenance during the cold season helps ensure the safety of both the kids and your equipment, and here are a few pointers to keep in mind.

Surfacing

Winters can be rainy here in Texas, and precipitation can wash away the material that makes up your playground surface. Check the surfacing under and around all equipment at least once a week to make sure you have adequate cushioning to avoid injuries due to falls. Also, remember that freezing temperatures can decrease your surfacing’s impact attenuation (its ability to absorb shock), so always check it thoroughly after a hard freeze.

Wood Preservation

If you have wooden equipment on your playground, keep in mind that winter conditions can lead to wood degradation. Damaged wood may pose a safety hazard in addition to being expensive to replace. Use a non-toxic wood preservative on wooden structures to prevent deterioration, and also check for any loose-fitting elements that could be blown away by high winter winds.

Hardware

Harsh weather conditions can loosen the hardware on your playground equipment, which presents a serious safety hazard. Inspect all hardware to make sure it’s secure before the coldest days of winter set in. This is important for ensuring the longevity of your equipment as well as for keeping kids safe from injury.

Stairs and Slides

While there’s little chance of snow here in south Texas, there’s always the possibility of icy conditions, which can make structures such as stairs and slides slippery and therefore dangerous. It’s important to monitor these structures and make sure they are dry and free of ice before kids engage in play. Also, remember to clear any standing water, as it can pose an additional hazard if it freezes.

Plan for Winter Attire

Winter scarves and hoods with drawstrings may pose choking hazards if they catch on to protruding or jagged surfaces, such as splitting wood or exposed bolts. Check your playground equipment for any elements that might snag winter clothing, and repair or replace as necessary.

Inspection

To ensure the safest possible experience for kids who visit your playground this winter, have your grounds and equipment inspected by a certified professional who can identify any hazardous conditions. Areas to look out for include fall zones, pinch points, and protrusions. Once the problems are identified, make sure to complete any needed repairs and replacements promptly.

 

Winter maintenance benefits not only the kids who visit your playground, but your equipment as well. By identifying hazards and conducting any needed repairs promptly, you increase the lifespan of your equipment in addition to protecting the families you serve.

Playgrounds play an important role in every child’s development. Whether you’re planning to build a new playground for your school, church, or community in the new year or want to expand and upgrade an existing one, budgeting is key. The planning phase is the most critical step in this undertaking, and you’ll want to pay close attention to the following areas.

Equipment

The overall budget for a playground is generally determined by the number of kids you expect to play there at a single time. The rule of thumb for this is to allocate $1,000 per child in your budget. This is, however, not the case if you want to build a themed playground, which will be more costly. The age group of the kids you expect to frequent your playground will also play a role in your choice of equipment.

Surfacing

Safety surfacing is a must-have for any playground to prevent injuries from falls. The budget for preparing the site area and installing surfacing, such as wood and rubber, depends on the type of surface you want. Keep in mind that surfacing like engineered wood fiber requires maintenance over the course of the year, while rubberized surfaces require little or no maintenance, making it a cheaper option in the long run.

Amenities

Amenities will attract more families to your playground, and of course these costs must also be factored into your budget. Consider whether you want to  include benches, grills, tables, bike racks and other accommodations. Make sure the costs of amenities you choose fall within your budget and that they will appeal to the families in your community (think about demographics, ages of kids, proximity of bike trails, etc).

Installation

Another item to keep in mind when budgeting for your playground is the installation cost. This includes site preparation, surfacing and installation of the equipment. Depending on the site, additional preparation may be required when clearing the area for installations, which can increase your costs. Therefore, always ensure that you know the landscape and what will be required to prepare it for your playground.

Freight Costs

Shipping costs for your equipment vary depending on the company you order from as well as their proximity to your location. The further away the company, the higher the shipping costs will be. Do some research and see if you can get the same materials and equipment from companies that are closer to you.

 

A few additional tips:

• Make sure all the right permits are in place before you begin your project.
• You can save on costs by choosing a site that is relatively flat and has good drainage.
• Account for the costs surrounding sidewalks, wheelchair-accessible paths, and good drainage if these are not already in place.
• Make arrangements for a storage facility in case your equipment arrives earlier than anticipated.

Good luck!