Blog

The "Aeroplane" element was first designed for a primary school in Nairobi, Kenya. The school was located near to the capital's airport. Kids were always seeing planes flying overhead, but few of them had had the chance to explore one up close. An artist from the community painted a skyline backdrop behind the element, bringing the scene to life. 

The "Aeroplane" features hybrid see-saw wings, which can accommodate dozens of kids at once. A few months after the build, the school emailed us to tell us some of the math teachers had started using the see-saws for outdoor classes to demonstate concepts of weight and balance. Check out this video the school captured of the wings in flight.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own "Aeroplane".  (Must create user account to see full instructions.)

Got an idea for a playground element? Join our community and submit your designs here.

This climbing structure is great for many children to play on at the same time and can double as a cubby element in the playground. Fast growing vines can be planted to crawl along rebar, creating a shaded space underneath. 

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own Rebar Igloo.  (Must create user account to see full instructions.)

Got an idea for a playground element? Join our community and submit your designs here.

In any space for play, "loose parts" are an essential ingredient. Unlike fixed equipment, loose parts are materials that can be moved and manipulated. They allow children the freedom to manipulate and change their environment for their play needs. 

These bolted together "roller tires" are a great loose parts addition to a play space. They won't easily be stolen from the playground, but can be moved around the play space to climb on, tunnel, through, hide in, or balance on. 

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own Roller Tire.  (Must create user account to see full instructions.)

Got an idea for a playground element? Join our community and submit your designs here.

When Playground Ideas first started as the "Go Play Project" in Thailand, many of the intial playground elements were built designed to be built from wood. In Thailand, timber is inexpensive and durable, making for an excellent playground material. The "Wonky Wood Climber" was one of the first elements. It can be built in a multitude of formations.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own Wonky Wood Climber.  (Must create user account to see full instructions.)

Got an idea for a playground element? Join our community and submit your designs here.