Finding the right age appropriate playground structure can be a challenge depending on what kind of organization you have. Maybe you’re a park who needs to serve a variety of age groups. Or a preschool how needs to serve a toddlers. We are frequently asked why our playgrounds are separated by age and what these separations mean exactly. Finally, here’s everything you need to know about how we determine how to separate playgrounds by age.
Age Appropriate Playground Shopping Tips
When shopping for age-appropriate playground equipment it’s likely that you’ve noticed that manufactures all use the same age ranges. These age ranges divide up play structures, but many people are unsure of why or how. The simple answer is that reputable manufacturers are careful to follow the playground safety guidelines set forth by the U.S. CPSC. These guidelines divide playgrounds into three age appropriate groups: infant to 2 years, 2 years to 5 years, and 5 years to 12 years.
These aren’t just arbitrary age divisions. Playground age ranges are based on the physical abilities and average sizes of children in each group. As children age, they are driven to build specific physical skill sets. Because of this drive, equipment that was fascinating at 2 loses some of its appeal by age 5.
You may have noticed that some structures on our site are labeled 2-12. Typically these structures exemplify the most challenging equipment available within the 2-5 year age range. You won’t find any overhead climbers or challenging upper body activities because they’re just not appropriate for children under 5. The BYO design team always does their best to make equipment as engaging as possible within safety standards. In many instances, these playground are a good compromise. However, they may be a little high for timid younger children and a little tame for rambunctious older children.
Creating a Community Playground
In some ways, schools have it easy, they know the exact age range and to an extent, abilities, of the children using their play equipment. Municipalities, HOAs and churches need play equipment that fits a much wider age range. Luckily, there are many options available to help create a playground that fits each child and every space.
The Two Structure Solution
Frequently, space is the number one obstacle for prospective playground owners. In those rare instances when a playground can be located in a large open space there are several options for creating a playground that suits all ages.
The simplest age appropriate solution is to create two separate structures, each dedicated to an age range. Aside from allowing the greatest creative freedom, this option also channels children into different areas of the playground based on ability. This reduces the risk that a large child will knock down, trample or be tripped by a slower toddler. Optimally, these independent play structures would be separated by a few independent play items to create a buffer between sizes.
One Age Appropriate Structure Solution
If space or budget demands that your age appropriate playground only have one structure, it’s best to choose a structure that meets the safety requirements of the 2 to 5 age range and incorporates a low slide as well as a higher slide. The overall playground can be dressed up with more challenging independent play items, such as monkey bars or rock walls to create a physically challenging and stimulating environment for all children.
Fun for All
Some play items never get old. Here are our favorite independent play items that appeal to all ages.
- Animal Shaped Climbers – Maybe it’s the thrill of riding a dinosaur or pretending to slay a dragon but thanks to their imaginative designs and relatively low profiles, these are our number one pick!
- Tire Swings– Okay, regular swings are amazing but tire swings are just, the best. While infants can’t ride on tire swings, any child old enough to hold will feel a little more secure. You can even swing with your friends! Because they move in 360 degrees and are accessible to most children, tire swings are king!
- Spinners– There are a few different versions of the spinner but they’re all pretty amazing. Because spinners come in so many sizes and styles pretty much any playground can find room for one or two.
