Having an outdoor outlet for your children, that’s close to home makes backyard playgrounds the perfect addition to your family. However, it’s essential to make sure your customizations are the safest.
Having a swing set in my backyard benefited both my toddlers and me. I was able to do my outdoor errands as they played nearby so I could make sure they were safe. Our playset was a lifesaver for not only days where my children were fussy, but also giving them a space for daily physical activity.
If you are looking for a safe custom built swing set, here are some things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Swing sets tend to run smaller than playgrounds and are typically built out of metal. Make sure it can handle the weight of your eldest child. Opting for a plastic playset can provide more structure stability, but it still gets very hot like metal sets. Make sure to test the surface of these playgrounds to ensure safety for when your children are using it during hot, sunny days.
Playsets are larger and more elaborate than swings. These include slides, tire swings, fire poles, rock walls, ladders, monkey bars, sandboxes, and playhouses. These models can provide your children with more creativity as well as safer options for playing. If you choose to include a canopy or roof for your custom-built playset, it must be removed temporarily during inclement weather to prevent damage.
Look for these things to ensure the safest choice:
1. Choose something that will grow with your children.
Choosing a design too simple or small limits the potential it has for your growing family. You can swap out baby attachments, and you can change smaller slides into longer ones; also, monkey bars can be heightened. Your playset should be age-friendly for your growing children.
2. Choose quality materials.
Woods like cedar and redwood are ideal, but it’s most important to avoid getting treated woods with pesticides and toxins.
3. Include protective barriers.
Fall dangers are common for platforms over four feet high. Be sure to include a barrier or railing customization when choosing your playset. Barriers need to be at least 27 inches tall and narrow enough to prevent your child’s head from being stuck.
4. Follow the eight-eight rule for swings.
Make sure each seat is eight inches off the ground and at least eight inches apart from its neighbor. Flexible material for the seats provides maximum comfort for the child’s bottom.
5. Have a protective surface.
Having a shock-absorbing substance for fall and scrape protection bumps up the safety of your playground. It should be at least six feet from the perimeter. Be sure to refill when needed.
6. Place appropriately.
Place the playset or swing set in the shade and as far away as the roads and driveway as possible. It should be built where you can still watch your children, but also away from sheds and garages.
With all this considered, you’re on your way to purchasing and installing a world of safe, creative possibilities for your children’s physical health.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
Speak Your Mind