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When you become a parent, any “you-time” quickly becomes time for your kids. It is easy to fall behind on your fitness goals when your life revolves around homework, music lessons, soccer practice, and play dates. Multi-tasking becomes a necessity. So, next time you are at the playground with your kids, why not turn it into a workout session for yourself? Here are a few exercises you can do using equipment found on most playgrounds: Park Bench Bench Push-Ups A modification of th …

As discussed in our last post, recycled tire mulch is becoming a popular choice for playground footing, but that isn’t the only way that you can reuse tires on your playground. Check out these creative ideas!Source1. ClimbingInstead of the traditional climbing wall with rock attachments or a ladder, try attaching tires to a wall for a fun and unique way for kids to reach the top of your playground.Source2. BalancingFun for all ages, create a fun and challenging balance beam by lining up tir …

There are many different options for playground footing, but no single option is the best solution for every playground. When choosing which footing to use, it is necessary to consider climate, safety, and accessibility, ease of maintenance, along with overall price. Here is a list of popular choices for playground footing as well as a few considerations for each. When considering any “loose form” footing option (including sand, pea gravel, mulch, etc.) the National Safety Council requires …

Playground games have been a staple of our society for hundreds if not thousands of years – whenever children play together outdoors or on a playground, they often devise intriguing, fun and challenging games that they can play together as a group. Games such as these help develop a child’s cooperative skills, their communication, and their ability to play in an appropriate manner with others of their own age. Although our world is becoming increasingly dependent on digital technology, it i …

Playgrounds and public parks have served as integral parts of our cities and towns for countless years. These areas allow children to engage in meaningful activities, social interaction with others of their own age, and learn how to play properly and safely. Playgrounds are seen by many as a vital part of the development of children and are highly important tools in teaching them valuable life and behavioral skills. There is nothing more rewarding or endearing to see a group of children inter …

Inadequate maintenance of equipment has resulted in injuries on playgrounds. Because the safety of playground equipment and its suitability for use depend on good inspection and maintenance, the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions and recommended inspection schedules should be strictly followed. If manufacturer’s recommendations are not available, a maintenance schedule should be developed based on actual or anticipated playground use. Frequently used playgrounds will require more …

Compiled are 20 of the most unique and fun looking playgrounds around the United States. If you are ever traveling around one of these areas with your kids, make some extra time to let them experience one of these magnificent places. Their imagination will surely thank you. 1. Kamakana Playground: Kona, Hawaii Three wooden castle structures, a boat, a train, a humpback whale, swings, slides, monkey bars, checkerboards, picnic tables and huge old shade trees. It's even fun as an ad …

The following factors are important when selecting a site for a new playground.Site FactorQuestions To AskIf Yes, Then...MitigationTravel patterns of children to and from the playgroundAre there hazards in the way?Clear hazards.Nearby accessible hazards such as roads with traffic, lakes, ponds, streams, drop-offs/cliffs, etc.Could a child inadvertently run into a nearby hazard?Could younger children easily wander off toward the hazard?Provide a method to contain children within the playgr …

Stanford research published in the "Journal of School Health" backs up that when schools organize recess as part of the school day, it provides many benefits for children other than a break from school work.  Students feel more engaged, positive, and emotionally safe. There should always be adults present during recess that are actively paying attention to the children. Milbrey McLaughlin, Professor of Education and Public Policy of David Jacks states, "Recess isn't normally co …

It can be hard finding the time to take your kids to the local park with the busy schedule most people live. If you are looking to find a way for your kids to be active and spend more time outside, why not turn your backyard into a fun environment for them? Here are some ideas to inspire you to turn your backyard into a fun area for your kids to play! Climbing Walls A climbing wall will bring out the daring spirit of your children. Try to avoid building your tower too tall to prevent a …