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The "Zig Zag Tires" design may be built to suit any play space; it may be shorter for smaller areas or longer for larger areas. It can be built in different configurations to create a flow within the play area or provide pathways between other play elements.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own “Zig Zag Tires.”(Note: must create a free user account to see full instructions.)

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

Benches don’t need to be boring. In fact, a well-executed bench can be a highlight in a play space. They can be conversation nooks…

Work stations…

Or nap spots…

Benches built at playgrounds are typically intended to act as adult supervision spots. But the best of benches incorporate play into their design, bleeding the line between the child’s playground realm and the “serious” adult world, like Jeppe Hein’s “Modified Social Benches.” You can learn more about Jeppe Hein’s interesting work on his webpage. 

Start with this simple design, then let your imagination carry you.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own “Bench.”(Note: must create a free user account to see full instructions.)

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

The "Car Tire Climber" is a hybrid climbing frame and bridge as children will use it to climb between elements, up or down. It's a more interesting transition challenge than simply a path between play pieces. It's angled design also creates a den-like protected area underneath.

Similar to the"Cargo Net Motorbike"design, the "Car Tire Climber" can be built in various configuration to fit your space and is a low-cost element.This design is a high climbing element and must have a safe-fall area below. Please closely look at the "Safety Consideration" on the design instructions page. Large washers should be used in the overlaps of the motorbike tires to ensure the element stays intact. Holes will also need to be drilled in the lowest point of each tire for proper drainage.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own “Car Tire Climber.”(Note: must create a free user account to see full instructions.)

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

"Children begin to develop body boundaries around age three or four. The idea that children have a world that they wish to keep separate from others is evident in studies on children’s sense of space and their child constructed play places. Corson and Colwell (2010) noted that children as young as three understand and can define the concept of secrecy and that they tend to associate secrets with secret hiding places. These places have relevance for young children’s peer relationships and social interactions."– "Space, Place, and Privacy: Preschool Children's Secret Hiding Places" by Kristi Gaines, Malinda J. Cowell, Michelle Pinson & Kimberly Corson, Texas Tech University.

Spaces for hiding are often overlooked in playground design. "Play" is typically thought of as active, loud, and social actions. A good play space should incorporate areas where children can retreat from the noise and bustle of the play area. Hiding nooks give children the opportunity to observe and reflect on the world around them. These private spaces give them a sense of autonomy and provide a space for children to self-regulate emotions and bodily control when overwhelmed or over-stimulated.

The "A-Frame Cubby Climber" is one part climbing wall + one part hiding nook. Perfect for younger children, the outside of the frame is angled with hand/foot holds for climbing. The inside of the frame offers a quiet space for peeking through the holes and watching the world outside.

Follow the link to get the step-by-step instructions for building your own "A-Frame Cubby Climber."(Note: must create a free user account to see full instructions.)

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