School playground equipment is a set of recreational outdoor equipment children use. Playing is essential in the development of the physical, emotional, and cognitive capabilities of children. Therefore, school playground equipment permits children, regardless of their age, to improve their social, cognitive, motor, and emotional skills.
Schoolyards also create a conducive environment for children to interact, be active, and enhance their imaginations while enjoying time off academic work. Accordingly, a school administration must pick playground equipment that meets both safety standard and the preferences of children, as well as regulations set out by the ADA.
Equipment Safety and ADA Requirements
School administration must read the Americans with Disabilities Act and requirements for acquiring licensing before purchasing any playground equipment. These guidelines include a playground that has a direct connection to the parking area, as well as other requirements. Playground equipment must not cause harm to children and should be fall-resistant, have round edges, ensure posts are capped, and include double barriers for raised platforms.
These precautions prevent events of injury occurring, such as those from sharp edges or when falling from elevated platforms. A complete playground should also utilize inclusive equipment, such as special wings that are wheelchair-accessible and ramps instead of staircases or steps. The school administration should ensure that all the equipment works properly, and that when students are using it they are under constant supervision by teachers.
Space and Equipment Dimensions
Space and location of equipment installation are critical when purchasing playground equipment. The administration should take into account the amount of playground field they have and compare them with the equipment they require. Play forts, slides, and swing sets need ample playground space but have a fixed dimension that the school management could use prior to purchasing equipment.
Age Recommendations
Recommendations based on age for equipment is vital in choosing the right equipment in terms of safety and engagement. Equipment such as triple flat bar systems that help kids build upper body increase in height, thereby allowing children to work gradually to the highest bar. Rock walls are perfect for elementary children and impart critical thinking and coordination. Additionally, playground rock walls instill adventure and confidence in kids. Other equipment such as slides are simple, fun, and children of all ages enjoy them. Monkey bars, spring rides, and seesaws are fun and safe for elementary children.
Quality, Capacity and Cost of Equipment
The capacity, cost, and quality are vital in choosing the best playground equipment. The school administration should review the equipment that optimally balances these three fundamentals while engaging the kids. Analysis of how often kids use a piece of equipment can be helpful when considering the types of design and quality to choose.
The cost of the playground is essential and is a factor in quality, capacity, safety, and space. The administration should research the cost of equipment to minimize compromising on quality. High capacity equipment must be durable and of high quality. The equipment should have attractive colors, and the availability of custom designs is advantageous.
Find Playground Equipment and Installation in Austin
Still looking for the perfect playground equipment for your school, or need purchased equipment installed? Contact the Austin playground equipment team at T.F. Harper & Associates LP to learn how we can help.
