Does wet pour rubber surfacing get hot?

Introduction

Wet-pour rubber surfacing is the go-to choice for many schools, early learning centres and public spaces. Its smooth finish, customisable designs, and durability make it a favourite.

However, wet pour rubber’s primary concern is whether it gets hot. This article will answer this question and give you a few tips on preventing such a problem.

Does wet pour rubber gets hot?

Like many surfaces, wet pour rubber is not immune to the effects of the sun. Its temperature can vary based on several factors, including the intensity and duration of sunlight it receives.

In regions experiencing hot summers or those located closer to the equator, prolonged sun exposure can inevitably cause the surface to warm up. However, it’s worth noting that while wet pour rubber may retain some heat, it doesn’t tend to become as scorching as alternatives like asphalt or metal.

Is it safe when it's hot?

The safety of wet pour rubber is not only about its temperature but also chemical stability under heat. Rosehill TPV, supplied by Creo, is a non-toxic material. It doesn’t contain harmful materials such as nitrate and sulphur compounds, being safe for the environment and native life.

But physical comfort is another concern. Like any other surface, care is necessary when playing on these surfaces. It is entirely safe if users take care when walking on these surfaces.

How to prevent it from getting hot: The warmth of a wet-pour rubber surface can be mitigated with a bit of foresight and strategic planning.

Choosing the right colours: In areas without shade, consider installing lighter colours to prevent heat absorption. Leave darker colours for shaded areas where heat absorption is lower.

Shading: Well-designed play areas balance open spaces with shaded regions. Utilising trees, overhead canopies, or sail shades can keep wet pour rubber surfaces comfortably cool.

This ensures comfort and extends the installation’s life by reducing UV wear. Choosing high-quality rubber, like TPV, is essential when maintaining the surface colour.

 

Is it eco-friendly?

This surface is not just about aesthetics and functionality; it has a green side, too. A significant portion of wet pour rubber is made from recycled tire rubber. This gives old materials new life and contributes to a more sustainable construction approach.

The material’s porous nature also ensures efficient water drainage, reducing puddle formation and improving stormwater management.

Aorangi School wet pour rubber surfacing includes sculptures.
Aorangi School, Rotorua. Designed and built by Creo with Wet Pour Rubber Surfacing.

Conclusion

Wet-pour rubber has rightfully claimed its place in modern playground design. While it’s essential to acknowledge and prepare for its potential to warm up under intense sunlight, just like any other type of surfacing, its advantages in safety, aesthetics, and environmental impact cannot be understated.

By integrating preventive measures like shade and colour choice and recognising the material’s green credentials, playgrounds can offer fun and safety, regardless of the soaring temperatures outside.

 

Read our portfolio below if you want to get ideas for your next surfacing project. Or if you are ready to take the next step, call us on 0800 000 334 or book a site visit.

Surface options for your childcare playground

Childcare is a space for children to learn, grow, and, of course, have fun. Choosing your childcare playground surface is one of the steps to ensure the space is excellent.  

If you’re looking at an upgrade, you’re in the right place. From traditional to modern options, we’ll guide you through the many options, ensuring your space is fun, safe, and functional.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Surfaces for Childcare

  • Safety: The well-being of the children is extremely important. Surfaces like wet pour rubber are designed with slip-resistant properties, cushioning for falls, and are made from non-toxic materials.
  • Hygiene: A clean play area is a healthy play area. While natural surfaces have their appeal, they can be challenging to maintain. Opt for surfaces that resist dirt and are easy to clean.
  • Durability: Children are energetic! Ensure your chosen surface can withstand their endless energy and frequent use.
  • Aesthetics: A playground should be a feast for the eyes. Choose colours and textures that captivate young minds.
  • Cost: Investing in quality now can save costs in the long run. However, always aim for a balance between quality and budget.

Indoor Play Areas

Safety is essential when it comes to playground equipment. New Zealand standards, like any other, change over time. If your playground equipment has been around for a while, it might not align with the latest safety guidelines.

You will need careful evaluation of your equipment against current standards. Sometimes, this might mean making significant modifications or, in rare cases, deciding that it’s best not to reuse a particular piece due to compliance issues.

Outdoor Play Areas

  • Grass: The feeling of natural grass is undeniable. However, it requires regular maintenance and can be a haven for insects. Its suitability depends on the nature of your childcare space.
  • Poured Rubber: This surface is a canvas for creativity. From vibrant animals to educational numbers, it adds immense play value. It’s safe, inclusive, and while it’s an initial investment, its longevity and minimal maintenance make it a top choice. It’s also versatile, perfect for mounds and uneven terrains.
  • Artificial Turf: A more budget-friendly alternative to grass and poured rubber. It’s clean, low-maintenance, and offers a consistent look year-round. However, integrating it with natural features can be challenging and doesn’t provide the same safety cushioning as poured rubber.
  • PermaPlay: The best of both worlds. It combines the safety cushioning of recycled rubber with the lush green appearance of grass, offering a natural look without compromising safety.
  • Wood Chips or Mulch: They provide an earthy, natural feel to play areas. They’re cost-effective but come with challenges, such as potential splinters and the need for regular replenishment.
  • Sand: Sandpits are playground staples, offering endless imaginative and sensory play opportunities. However, they can attract animals and might conceal hazardous objects. Regular maintenance and checks are crucial.
  • Concrete: Often used for bike tracks and pathways, concrete is durable and easy to maintain. However, it’s imperative to have safety fall zones around concrete areas, which can limit available play space.

Final Thoughts

Your childcare space reflects your commitment to children’s growth and safety. Suitable surfacing can enhance play, safety, and learning, whether working in a cozy corner or a sprawling area. 

Mix and match surfaces to create diverse play zones and prioritize safety, hygiene, and aesthetics. After all, a well-thought-out playground is where memories are made, and dreams are born.

Read our portfolio below if you want to know more and get inspired. Or if you are ready to decide, call us on 0800 000 334 or book a site visit.

Can you reuse your existing playground equipment on a new project?

Playground equipment plays a significant role in our communities, providing spaces for children to explore, learn, and create memories.

As the need arises to update or redesign these spaces, many wonder, “Can I reuse playground equipment in my new playground or project update?”.

This article answers this question, offering insights to guide your decisions for the community’s benefit.

Working with Your Existing Playground Equipment

Reusing playground equipment is not just about saving costs or being environmentally conscious; it’s about preserving memories and ensuring continuity.

The main reasons to reuse your playground equipment could be:

  1. They are still in a good state of preservation. It is a great way to keep your project costs down if you have considerably new equipment that can be recycled.
  2. Only minor upgrades are needed. For example, if the base or some chains are broken, these fixes can be done without much effort.
  3. Legacy. Maybe you have a great piece of equipment that has a symbolic value to the local community. In that case, using the old equipment is a great way to pay respect to the memories built there. Even if it cannot be recycled, it can become a sculpture and add to the value of your space.

At Creo, we don’t just look at the physical state of your equipment. We assess its quality, relevance, and how it fits into the new design.

We aim to ensure that if a piece of equipment has a place in your new space, it’s integrated seamlessly and effectively.

Compliance

Safety is essential when it comes to playground equipment. New Zealand standards, like any other, change over time. If your playground equipment has been around for a while, it might not align with the latest safety guidelines.

You will need careful evaluation of your equipment against current standards. Sometimes, this might mean making significant modifications or, in rare cases, deciding that it’s best not to reuse a particular piece due to compliance issues.

Play Value: More Than Just Fun

When we talk about the play value of playground equipment, we’re referring to its range of features and the benefits it provides to children.

It’s not just about fun; it’s about development, learning, and growth. If you’re considering reusing equipment, it must be packed with features that add the most value.

Inclusivity also is a crucial aspect of modern playgrounds. Ensuring that children of all abilities can engage, socialise, and feel integrated into the space enhances play value and fosters community spirit.

Getting New Equipment: A Fresh Start

While there’s a charm in preserving the old, sometimes the best way forward is to start anew. If a piece of playground equipment has stood the test of time, it might be worth keeping it as a legacy piece—a nod to the past and a story for future generations. 

However, new equipment comes with its set of advantages. It guarantees compliance with the latest standards, offers enhanced play value, and ensures inclusivity.

Plus, with local manufacturers like Creo, you can have the equipment tailored to your specific needs and vision.

Read more: How to budget for your playground equipment

The Pros and Cons of Reusing Playground Equipment

Pros:

  • Cost-Effective: Reusing equipment can lead to significant savings.
  • Sustainability: It’s an eco-friendly choice, reducing waste and the need for new materials.
  • Preservation: Keeping older equipment can maintain a sense of history and continuity in a community space.

Cons:

  • Safety Concerns: Older equipment might not meet current NZ standards.
  • Limited Play Value: As play trends evolve, older equipment might not offer the same engagement levels as newer designs.
  • Maintenance: Older equipment might require more frequent repairs or modifications.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, upgrading your playground is a delicate balance of managing the budget while delivering a space where children play and have fun.

While considering old equipment showcases a sustainable approach, it’s vital to remain open to new equipment’s possibilities and the enhancements it can bring to your space.

If you can have an environment where memories are forged and everyone feels included, you’ve achieved the ultimate goal.

Read our portfolio below if you want to know more and get inspired. Or if you are ready to decide, call us on 0800 000 334 or book a site visit.

5 Reasons You Should Install Shade in Your Childcare Playground

Sand pits are present in adventure playground design.

Elevating Your Playground with Shade

When planning or upgrading your childcare playground, one element stands out as both functional and essential: shade. 

While it adds beauty and style to the space, its primary role is ensuring children’s and teachers’ safety and comfort.

From trendy shade sails to classic umbrellas and chic pergolas, there’s a shade solution tailored for every playground style.  We will show you in this article 5 reasons why you need shade in your childcare playground.

1. Protection from Sun and Rain

Too much sun can harm the little ones, making shading crucial. While we appreciate sunny days for mood lift and vitamin D, prolonged exposure can pose risks, especially during peak hours.

Installing shade provides a refuge from the sun’s intensity and offers a shield during unexpected rain showers, ensuring uninterrupted play.

2. Keeping Surfaces Cool

Direct sunlight can quickly heat playground surfaces, turning slides, swings, and other equipment into potential burn hazards.

By introducing shade, you mitigate this risk, ensuring every touch and slide is a pleasant experience for the kids.

3. Shade Extends the Life of Your Equipment

Your playground equipment is an investment; like all investments, it deserves protection. Continuous exposure to the elements, especially the sun, can accelerate wear and tear.

Shade structures act as a protective barrier, prolonging the lifespan of your equipment and ensuring it remains vibrant and inviting.

Natural elements are great for shade in childcare playgrounds
Natural elements are great for shade in childcare playgrounds

4. Low Maintenance, More Play

Modern shade structures are designed to withstand time with minimal upkeep. Once installed, they consistently perform their protective role.

It allows you to focus on other aspects of playground management and childcare. Also, choosing the right shade for your space will help you maintain the whole area with more ease from the elements.

5. Shade Enhances Playground Looks

Beyond functionality, shade structures contribute significantly to the visual appeal of a playground.

With many designs, materials, and colours available, you can find the perfect shade that complements and elevates your playground’s overall design.

Conclusion: The Multifaceted Benefits of Shade

So, there you have it. Adding shade to your childcare playground isn’t just a design choice; it’s a statement that says you care about safety, longevity, and style.

Next time you consider childcare playground upgrades, remember the many hats shade wears – protector, cooler, and style enhancer.

Read our portfolio below if you want to know more and get inspired. Or if you are ready to decide, call us on 0800 000 334 or book a site visit.

Modular Play Equipment: How to make the most of it.

The Magic of Modular Play Equipment

Have you ever wondered how modular play equipment can revolutionise your playground? As the world of play evolves, so does the equipment we use.

Modular play equipment offers a fresh, customisable, and inclusive approach to playground design. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the many benefits it brings to the table.

Maximising Play Value with Modular Design

One of the standout features of modular equipment is its ability to maximise play value. With traditional playgrounds, you’re often limited by space and design. However, modular play equipment changes the game. Here’s how:

  • Space Saving Solutions: Modular play allows you to add different features even in limited spaces. Whether you have a compact urban playground or a sprawling suburban one, there’s a modular solution for you.
  • Customizable Configurations: Every playground is unique, and modular equipment respects that. You can configure pieces to suit your playground type, ensuring they remain relevant and engaging.
  • Inclusivity at its Best: Modular equipment can easily be integrated with natural play elements, creating an inclusive environment for children of all abilities. It can even be built out of timber or wooden logs.
  • Themed Adventures: From pirate ships to incredible towers or castles, modular play equipment can be tailored to various themes, making playtime an immersive experience.

Budget-Friendly and Versatile

The beauty of modular equipment is its adaptability to small and large budgets. Whether you want to add a simple slide or a multi-tiered climbing structure, there’s a modular option.

Plus, the endless possibilities include tracks, slides, ropes, panels, hammocks, and sensory play elements.

Diverse Play Options for Every Child

Modular equipment is as diverse as you want it to be. With the capacity of adding different elements to your space, therefore adding play value. Check some of them out:

  • Climbing Challenges: Every skill level has a climbing challenge, from rock walls to rope ladders. As they have different heights, children can challenge their skills as they grow or go up.
  • Sensory Exploration: Panels, hammocks, and sensory play elements cater to children of all ages and abilities, fostering not only inclusion but also learning.
  • Elevated Excitement: Different heights, monkey bars, transitions, slides, tunnels, and towers ensure there’s never a dull moment.
  • Balancing Acts: Balance beams, overheads, and access decks test and develop a child’s coordination and balance.
Modular Play Equipment made of timber.
Whitikau Reserve, Modular equipment to foster local heritage.

Managed Risk for Skill Development

Playgrounds are not just about fun; they’re also about skill development. Modular equipment offers different challenges, ensuring children can push their boundaries in a safe environment.

From simple slides for the little ones to intricate climbing challenges for the older kids, a managed risk element aids in their physical and cognitive development.

Conclusion: The Future for Modular Play Equipment

Its versatility, inclusivity, and adaptability make it a top choice for modern playgrounds. With its many different features, it can be included in all kinds of outdoor or indoor spaces.

At Creo, If you are looking for modular play equipment and need a full-service playground company to handle your equipment’s design, manufacturing, and installation, we are ready to guide you through the process. Check our full range of equipment here or call us on 0800 000 334.

How much does a childcare playground cost in 2023?

A childcare playground is not just an area for kids to play; it’s a place for learning and is essential for early childhood development.

Constructing this unique space requires careful planning and budgeting, from design to installation and safety parameters.

Here, we break down the steps to what goes into building such a space and how costs vary based on your choices.

The actual costs of a childcare playground

If you landed on this article, you’re preparing for a childcare playground update or building a new one and need to know how to budget for it.

As a full-service playground company, we’ll guide and work with you from idea to completion of your space.

Understanding the costs: Every childcare playground is unique. Whether you have a vast expanse or a compact area, the goal is to optimise it for children’s play and learning.

This can drive costs up or down and influence your entire design.

Breaking Down the Costs: Now that you know how your childcare playground will be laid out, costs can range from $400 to $1000 per m2.

It’s a considerable bracket to consider, but we’ll discuss the specifics in the topics below. Just scroll down, and we’ll show you how to make the most of your play space budget with features, landscaping, and making the most of your area.

A childcare playground can have tunnels, mound and tracks.
WanaExcel, an Early Childhood Centre designed and built by Creo.

Site Preparation: Laying the Foundation

Before diving into the fun stuff, the site requires careful preparation. Let’s address some common concerns:

  • Do existing structures and surfaces need removal? If there are old elements on the site, their removal and disposal could impact your project’s cost.
  • Are there drainage problems or hidden utilities? If drainage issues or concealed electrical or plumbing lines exist, we’ll collaborate with you to address them.
  • Will trees and their roots be beneficial or problematic? While trees add aesthetic value and shade, their roots can present challenges for surfacing and installation.
  • How easily can equipment access the site? Easily accessible sites for machinery and trucks can lead to time and cost savings.
  • Is pedestrian safety ensured during construction? Securing walkways or installing temporary fences might incur added costs but are crucial for safety.
  • Will the project unfold in phases? A staged development approach can influence both costs and timelines, offering a budget-friendly option for some.

Childcare Playground Design

Your childcare playground design begins with your vision. The features you desire and what’s currently in your playground will help us craft the narrative of your childcare playground. For instance, remember the necessary safety fall zones if a concrete bike track is desired.

Materials like wet-pour rubber can be more economical and space-saving. Throughout the design process, we’ll collaborate to ensure all these considerations come to life without compromising play value.

Surfacing for your Childcare Playground

The childcare playground surface encompasses more than aesthetics; it addresses safety, functionality, and budgetary concerns.

Blending different surfaces, like a sandpit with grass areas, can offer varied play experiences and potentially help manage your budget.

Using safety surfacing in strategic areas, such as tracks and mounds, can eliminate the need for extra space that concrete requires for safety zones.

Check our surfacing equipment options here.

Equipment & Features

Selecting equipment is about finding the right balance between budget and functionality. While slides, swings, and seesaws remain classic favourites, sometimes more straightforward, unprescribed play features and low-height equipment are more suitable for a childcare playground.

Elements like tunnels, mounds, and sensory paths can captivate children and often come with a more appealing price tag.

Check Creo full equipment range here.

Shading

Shading is a must, especially during the hotter months. While designing shade sails up to 50m is typically straightforward, incorporating natural options like trees is aesthetically appealing but may pose challenges related to surfacing and maintenance.

Landscaping

Landscaping breathes life into the childcare playground. Whether establishing a garden, embedding vegetable patches, or integrating existing vegetation, a well-landscaped childcare playground is cost-effective and visually compelling.

Plan and Develop in Stages

Not every childcare playground needs to materialise all at once. For those mindful of their budget, phased development can be a strategic choice. 

Start with foundational elements and gradually introduce new features, ensuring each phase offers a fulfilling play experience.

Final Thoughts on Childcare Playground: The True Value of Play

There are myriad elements to consider when allocating funds for your childcare playground, and many factors can significantly adjust your project’s final price tag.

With careful planning, your dream space can emerge—a haven where children can have fun, learn, and cultivate their development.

We aim to guide you through the process without unwelcome surprises. To ensure you’re well-prepared, take a moment to consider which factors will most impact your space.

Ready to chat? Book a site visit here or call us at 0800 000 334.

5 Ideas to Attract More People to Your Playground

Playground, as vibrant community space, irresistibly draw people in. With their energy, laughter, and cherished memories, they naturally bridge communities.

So, how can we ensure that a playground doesn’t merely exist but genuinely thrives and anchors the community?

Let’s journey together through five dynamic strategies to magnify your playground’s charm and draw.

Community Engagement

Every playground mirrors the heartbeat of its community. To make sure it deeply connects with everyone:

  • Engage the Community: Before you roll out any changes, rally the locals in community meetings. This proactive step lets you tap into the community’s pulse, gather insights, and weave those aspirations into the very fabric of your playground’s design.
  • Forge Local Ties: Think schools, clubs, or even weekend hobby groups. These local establishments can be goldmines of collaboration. Teaming up for joint events can inject variety and ensure a consistent influx of visitors.
  • Embrace an Open Door: Especially for playgrounds within school grounds, opening up post-school hours can cement community bonds. This inclusive approach ensures a diverse mix of visitors, enriching the playground’s ambiance.

Host Dynamic Events & Activities at your Playground

Breaking the myth: playgrounds aren’t just for the young ones.

  • Create for Everyone: Why not host an eclectic mix of events like open-air art classes or starlit movie nights? Imagine transforming your playground with monthly food fests, making it a buzzing family hangout.
  • Sprinkle Some Art: Art has a magic touch. Rally local artists to paint murals or set up sculptures, infusing uniqueness and color into the area.
  • Breathe Life with Performances: Scheduled events, whether they’re musical evenings or dance lessons, breathe life into the play space. Engaging the community in these events also lets them shape the playground’s evolving identity.

Playground Aesthetics & Amenities Upgrades

The visual magic of your playground can be its biggest draw:

  • Green it Up: Pondering an upgrade? Dive into landscaping. Lush greens, paired with cozy seating, can massively uplift your playground’s visual magnetism.

Learn more about the costs of a playground: The Real Cost of Building a Playground in 2023

  • Prioritize Comfort: Slide in must-have amenities such as sparkling restrooms, water stations, or perhaps a quaint café corner. When visitors find comfort, they linger longer.

Thoughtful Playground Design from Day One

If you’re at the drawing board, holistic design thinking can be your game-changer:

  • Design with Everyone in Mind: An all-encompassing design factors in every potential visitor. From varied play equipment to shady relaxation zones, the focus remains on catering to every age and ability, sealing the playground’s success. Learn more about inclusivity here.

Conclusion

Elevating a playground transcends aesthetics. It hinges on crafting a welcoming space that pulls communities closer and promises something for everyone. 

Need some more ideas?
16 Things that Make up a Great Playground Design
What are the features of a good playground design in 2023?

As you pour thought, effort, and resources into your playground’s design, you’re not just building a play area but nurturing a thriving community heartbeat.

What are the problems with a thematic playground design, and how can we fix it?

A thematic playground design can be an excellent option for your space, offering kids a unique and imaginative play experience.

But without the proper planning, that dream playground can quickly become a design nightmare.

If you’re considering a themed playground, let’s explore the ins and outs to ensure your space is fun and functional.

What is a Thematic Playground Design?

Thematic playgrounds are play spaces that revolve around a specific theme or concept, designed to provide children with a more immersive and imaginative play experience.

These themes can be based on a variety of topics, such as literature, nature, history, fantasy, adventure, and many others. The chosen theme influences the playground’s design, equipment, and features.

Thematic Playground Design done right at Whitikau Reserve. Waka, river and heritage.
A good example on how to build a playground with a theme at Whitikau Reserve.

How can Thematic Playground Design can be problematic?

Relevance Concerns

Pop culture is everchanging. Today’s superhero sensation might be tomorrow’s old news. A playground themed after fleeting trends might not stand the test of time.

Moreover, as neighbourhoods evolve, a theme once loved might no longer strike a chord. It’s like choosing a permanent tattoo based on a temporary mood.

Overemphasis on Theme

 We’ve all seen it—playgrounds so dedicated to their theme that they forget their primary purpose: play. A dragon-themed slide is cool, but not if it’s too steep or scary for the little ones.

Overcomplication

Playgrounds should be inviting. Something is wrong if a child needs a map to navigate it or feels overwhelmed with too many structures. Simple joys often matter most.

Incoherent Storytelling

A story with too many twists can be confusing. Similarly, a playground with a mixed bag of themes feels scattered. And a scattered playground can lead to a scattered play experience.

Limited Play Value

Beauty without purpose is hollow. If we get caught up in making the playground look good but forget its function, we risk disappointing its primary audience: the kids.

How to Make a Thematic Playground a Great Space

Community Engagement

Before setting pencil to paper, talk to the community. Understand their stories, values, and dreams.

They can offer insights that make your playground resonate deeply and remain cherished for years.

Educational Potential

Beyond play, playgrounds can be classrooms under the open sky. Imagine a playground that looks like a medieval castle—while children play, they also learn about ancient history. Or a playground resembling a tropical jungle, sparking curiosity about wildlife and ecosystems.

Unique Designs

Every playground should have its charm. You can turn your playground into a beloved local landmark by introducing bespoke designs—maybe a unique tower or a whimsical sculpture.

Diverse Equipment

Stories have characters, settings, and plots. Similarly, a playground should have varied equipment, each telling a part of the story.

From swings and seesaws to mazes and climbing nets, a range of equipment can cater to kids’ diverse interests.

Age Considerations

Themes should be broad enough to attract all age groups. While a fairyland might captivate toddlers, adventure or mystery themes might be more appealing to older kids.

Inclusivity

Everyone deserves to play. Your thematic playground should be accessible and enjoyable for children of all abilities.

Ramps, sensory elements, and varied equipment can ensure no one feels left out.

Immersive Play

Deep immersion means that when children step into the playground, they feel like they’ve entered a new world.

Every corner should spark curiosity, every element should tie back to the theme, and the play should feel like an adventure.

Conclusion

Creating a thematic playground design is like writing a story; it needs heart, creativity, and an understanding of its audience. 

While the path has challenges, the destination—a fun, engaging, and imaginative space for children—is worth every effort.

So, as you set out to design your playground, keep these tips in hand and remember that every good story and playground begins with a spark of imagination.

What is the best Early Childhood Education playground equipment?

Early childhood education is crucial for children’s development. In these formative years, they cultivate skills that influence their behavioural and motor abilities.

Whether you’re a teacher, an ECE manager, or a business administrator, this article will guide you through the best playground equipment to enhance children’s learning and development.

Principles of Early Childhood Education Learning

Play isn’t just fun and games—it’s at the core of early learning. Have you ever paused to think about why? The answer lies in understanding the principles of learning.

Firstly, children are active learners. Picture a child in a playground. They aren’t just standing around; they’re on the move!

Touching the sand, scaling the play structures, experimenting with how things work. They have the spirit and essence of hands-on learning because learning is not a passive act for them.

They don’t just absorb; they engage, dive in, and participate.

Imagine a puzzle. Every tiny piece connects to another, forming a coherent picture. Similarly, all areas of development in a child are interconnected.

When a child begins to speak more, their ability to think and reason out also sharpens.

Learning is social. Remember the time you learned the most? Was it when you were alone or when you interacted with others?

Moreover, learning is also socialising. Through interactions, whether it’s with parents, teachers, or colleagues, children grasp the nuances of emotions and relationships.

It’s crucial to understand that children learn at different rates.

Just as every individual is unique, their pace of learning varies. And these early experiences? They’re profound, leaving a lasting impact on their adult lives.

Thus, the significance of positive, enriching early experiences cannot be stressed enough.

Lastly, just as you appreciate a consistent routine in your life, children thrive on it too. Routine brings predictability and security, forming the building blocks of learning.

Early Childhood Education play spaces spark creativity and imagination.
Early Childhood Education play spaces spark creativity and imagination.

Playground Equipment for Early Childhood Education

Let’s talk specifics.

  • Communication Playground Equipment: Instruments, interactive panels, and toys that beckon a child to engage.

Imagine a xylophone in a playground that allows a child to create music and encourages interaction with peers.

  • Sensory Play for Early Childhood Education: Consider equipment that plays with the senses. Textured pathways, fragrant flowers, balance beams, and spinners foster cognitive and motor skill development.
  • Sand Play: While sand pits are a staple in many ECE centres, their potential is often untapped. Introduce mud kitchens, unique toys, and captivating patterns to up the ante and see engagement soar.
  • Colourful Play: The colours of the rainbow can stimulate cognitive growth. Incorporate colourful blocks, paint the playground floor with interactive games, and watch as children get drawn to them.
  • Natural Play: Bring children a step closer to Mother Earth. Consider planting a butterfly garden, introducing log balance beams, or even a small fishpond.

These natural elements teach children about the environment while nurturing their sense of wonder.

Crafting Spaces that Speak to the Child's Expectations

The design of a space holds the power to transform learning. Imagine a playground surface painted with educational games or vibrant patterns; it instantly doubles as a learning tool.

 Mounds in the play area can pose a delightful challenge for kids, while tunnels and climbing options introduce the concepts of risk and problem-solving.

These elements, while fun, are integral to making children more resilient and adept at overcoming obstacles.

The Final Word: Size Doesn’t Matter, Intent Does

Building a playground that’s a hub of learning doesn’t necessarily demand a vast space or a monumental budget.

The ideas shared here can seamlessly integrate into a grand vision or even a modest upgrade. Remember, it’s not about how grand the play space is but how well it aligns with the principles of learning and children’s innate curiosity.

Because in the world of ECE, every slide, swing, and sandbox is a door to a universe of learning. So, are you ready to open those doors wide?

If you’d like to talk to someone about a future project or would like a concept designed for your space, give us a call at 0800 000 334, or book a 15-minute ideas session with one of our consultants.

The Approach of a Full Service Playground Company

Full Service Design and Build companies work with you from concept.

When planning the ideal playground, the comprehensive services of a full service design and build playground company stand out.

Their expertise spans the initial brainstorming phase to the final installation, ensuring every playground blends fun, safety, and functionality. Here, at Creo, our full service design and build knowledge guide you from concept to delivery, managing the whole process of your playground. 

In this article, we will cover what these types of companies do and explain why they are a cost-effective choice when planning a playground.

The Consultation Process: Laying the Foundation

The consultation is the first step with a full-service design and build playground company. This is where your vision starts to take shape.

The main difference between full service and other styles of playground builders is their expertise in the specifics of a play area and how the principles of play can be covered.

Assessment

 Understand the importance of assessing the specific needs of different entities, be it schools, municipalities, or private organisations.

A comprehensive company will know how to cater for your space. All you need is to bring an idea, a wish list, and a budget.

Custom Design

Full-service playground design and build companies use modern technology to provide 3D renderings and virtual walkthroughs, turning your dream into a visual reality.

Through that, it is easy to understand the story you want to tell through the playground and the features it will have on it. Adding to storytelling is custom-built playground equipment specially designed for a specific area.

Full Service Design and Build companies work with you from concept.
Bespoke and unique items can be included in a full service design.

Elevating the Experience: Beyond the Basics

Many companies offer additional services to enhance the overall playground experience. Some companies may focus on landscape design, others will heavily rely on playground equipment. But each part of your play space is important and should be considered.

Landscaping

Often overlooked, landscape design is fundamental when planning your play space. A full service playground design and build company adds this into the design.

A thoughtful landscape design can add play value and sensory play for its users. Flowers and native plants can be great for learning and relaxation.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Play should be available for all. An inclusive playground integrates the possibility for children of all abilities to play and socialise in its design. Play equipment that caters not only for one but for all users.

Read more: Inclusive Playgrounds

Bespoke Designs

Many playground companies need to outsource their production, unable to work on bespoke items that can stand out. A full service playground design and build company can design items, such as towers with unique features and add more play value to the equipment and your whole space design. 

Understanding the principle of play, bespoke designs can make a difference in destination playgrounds.

Planning Your Playground: Key Considerations

Every playground project has its unique challenges. Let’s understand the factors that influence its success.

Budgeting

Understanding your budget is of great importance. A comprehensive understanding of where the money goes and when will ensure that your budget is maximised.

Read our series on budget:
Site Prep.

Surfacing.

Equipment.

Design.

Space Utilisation

Smart use of the space can add play value and support the design aesthetic.

Age-Specific Designs

The area where the playground is installed affects your project’s features. For early childhood centres, the focus will be on learning and challenging toddlers to develop essential skills.

 As children grow older, risk assessments and learning features must be added. Parents and grandparents should also be considered in the design for seating, collaborative play and exercise equipment.

Full Service playground design and build company can work from surface to playground equipment manufacturing.
Elm Park School. A Full Service design and build project from Creo.

Staying Updated: Embracing Playground Trends

The world of playgrounds is ever-evolving. Let’s explore the latest trends that are making waves.

Nature Play

The trend of integrating natural elements into playground designs is more than just a fad; it promotes holistic development and children’s engagement. As well as adding play value and unique design to your space.

Interactive Elements

The modern playground is a blend of physical, mental, and digital play, with interactive elements ensuring children are engaged and challenged in diverse ways.

Safety First: Building with Care

Safety and understanding compliance can become handy when dealing with a company that works with you from concept to installation. Reducing the costs or surprises that can arise in the project’s future.

Compliance with Standards

A specialised playground company understands the standards and compliance requirements from equipment, site and design. With these in mind, there are reduced risks of having surprises with your budget having to be stretched.

Material Selection

Depending on the area where the playground will be built, some materials perform better than others. For example, if the space is in a region with heavy downpours, rubber surfacing can be better than bark or grass, ensuring drainage is installed.

Installation: Bringing the Vision to Life

The installation phase is where your playground starts to materialise. Let’s break down the steps involved.

Site Preparation

 Understand the intricacies of preparing the site, from clearing to ensuring proper drainage. A full service playground design will consider where your playground is located. 

If it is a public area, there is the likelihood that underground cables or pipes will be something to remove or be replaced. Removing existing natural obstacles is also part of the site preparation to make the work as smooth as possible.

Equipment Installation

Experts in equipment installation and manufacturing, a full service playground company understands how to install the equipment to reduce costs and make the equipment last longer.

Surfacing Choices

This part is already considered in the design process. However, there are three different main choices for surfacing. 

Wet pour rubber is a non-toxic material that lasts for over 20 years, depending on the place of installation. 

Woodchip is a cheaper option initially, but it can cost more in the long run as it needs to be replaced occasionally. 

Grass, the old good natural grass, is excellent for some areas of playgrounds, but be aware that in spaces of high traffic, it can be easily damaged.

Final thoughts on Full Service Playground Design and Build

Choosing a full-service playground design and build company is more than just a decision; it is an investment in quality, safety, and innovation. 

Such companies bring a wealth of knowledge, ensuring that every playground they craft meets and exceeds expectations.

From the initial consultation to the final touches, their comprehensive approach ensures that every detail is meticulously planned and executed. 

Whether integrating the latest trends or ensuring inclusivity, their expertise shines through in every project.

As playgrounds evolve, partnering with a full-service company guarantees a space that will delight, educate, and inspire for years.

If you’d like to talk to someone about a future project or would like a concept designed for your space, give us a call at 0800 000 334, or book a 15-minute ideas session with one of our consultants.