Toddlers are bundles of energy. They’re constantly squirming, crawling, spinning, and jumping. Playgrounds can be great environments for toddlers to play, challenge their abilities and engage their senses. But play spaces often require a bit more intention in design to make them appropriate and fun for younger kids. We’ve put together a collection of eight of our favorite DIY elements for playgrounds for toddlers. Check them out!
The tire tunnel could not be easier to build, and it’s a great versatile element for toddlers–they can climb through it, crawl over it, or hide inside.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Tire Tunnel.
Toddlers are highly tactile, so a playground garden is a perfect element –they love touching new textures, looking for patterns and smelling the flowers. Be sure to exclude any poisonous plants and include a few edible vegetables or herbs to add to the sensory experience!
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Sensory Garden.
Simple hills are perfect for toddler playgrounds because they add dimension to the space and are endlessly fun to run up and down and up and down and up and down.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Earth Mound Small.
This simple slide is nearly indestructible. It’s made from concrete and floor tiles, so the slide surface won’t get too hot in the sun. Combine the slide with an earth mound and toddlers will have a gentle slope to climb up to their slide, which is prevents tumbles and falls from a traditional slide ladder.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Slide Tile.
This toddler swing seat is super simple to construct. It just requires a few tire threads and bolts!
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Bucket Seat.
We believe every playground should have a sandpit! Sand is the perfect creative play material because it allows kids to shape, mold, and create new forms each time.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Tire Sandpit Combo.
Add a little music to your playground with this DIY xylophone!
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own Big Xylo.
This cubby climber is perfect for a toddler playground. They’ll love crawling inside and playing peek-a-boo with their friends outside. It also allows for a safe, cozy space when kids need a little spot to sit and watch the world. More confident or older kids can use the peek holes as climbing holds and crawl all over it.
Click here to get the step-by-step instructions to build your own A-Frame Cubby Climber.
Looking for more DIY playground elements? Check out our Design Library with over 150 free playground element designs complete with full step-by-step instructions.
