The myriad of ways a child can play are nearly unlimited. But unfortunately, most playgrounds around the world look strikingly similar. The same old slide, see-saw, and swings can get a little boring over time and don’t leave much room for creativity. We’ve put together a list of 10 of our favorite creative school playground ideas you can build yourself with tools and materials you can easily find. Check it out!
Zoom all over town in this super easy pretend motorbike. It only takes a few bolts and a couple old tires to build!
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Motorbike!
Add a little rhythm to your playground with this drum set made from old water barrels.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Double Drum!
This aeroplane is a hit on school playgrounds! Kids can “ride” the see-saw wings, steer the plane in the cockpit, or take a seat as a passenger.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Aeroplane!
Remember those tabletop wire and bead threading toys often found in Doctor’s waiting rooms? Build a giant version with rebar and pipe!
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Rebar Threader!
This element got it’s name from the infamous “Matatu” buses that crowd the streets in East Africa. This simple DIY version is the perfect addition to a school playground’s pretend play area!
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Matatu Tu!
This tire amphitheater is a great idea for school playgrounds. Teachers can hold outdoor lessons or school assemblies, or kids can have a blast just jumping all over them!
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Amphitheater Tire!
Paint up these simple wooden frames to look like shop fronts and soon your playground will be a bustling marketplace! Try adding in some containers of loose parts like sticks, stones, wood cuts, or a mud molding table nearby where kids can model their pretend products to sell.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Shop Front!
Most playgrounds only cater to active play. But children love using all their senses in play! A rich garden allows kids to touch interesting textures, look for patterns, smell, and even taste!
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Sensory Garden!
This version of the classic see-saw can accommodate several children at once. With several connected planks, the see-saw hybrid creates a sort of cause and effect wave motion.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Balance See-Saw Hybrid!
Add a little music to your school playground with this big xylophone. It’s super simple to make as it only uses screws, pipe, and timber.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Big Xylo!
Looking for more school playground ideas? Check out our Design Library, with over 150 DIY playground elements!
