Playing is a huge part of children’s growth and development. A quality play can significantly improve the children’s quality of life. Playing can be done inside and outside the home. Outdoor activities are a great way to enhance the child’s physical skills, health and well-being. It also helps improve the child’s interaction with other kids.
There is a variety of outdoor activities for kids such as trampoline, rock climbing walls, and the likes. However, as parents, the responsibility does not end in choosing the best outdoor activities. The true responsibility lies in making sure that the kids are safe whenever they are playing outside. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the playground flooring is stable and as much as possible padded to prevent slip and accident, especially when small children are playing outside. As parents, we know how careless the kids are when they are outside. They are into the moment which makes them prone to accident.
Aside from the flooring, the playground should also be inspected for things that can be potentially dangerous such as the presence of sharp and pointed objects, the temperature outside, and the traffic. If there are too many kids playing, there is a possibility that the kids would bump into each other. The temperature outside is another factor. There should be adequate shading when the temperature gets too humid. The same thing goes if the weather gets windy or chilly.
When it comes to the playground floor, there is a multitude of choices. In this article, we are going to discuss the common playground floor/surface and the benefits of each one of them.
- Loose fill rubber mulch
It is one of the common choices and it does come with tons of benefits as it usually comes from recycled tires. First and foremost, it is highly durable and requires low maintenance. It is softer compared to the typical wood mulch. It makes a very good resistant surface, which is perfect for active play. It does not encourage the growth of harmful substances such as mold and mildew. In fact, even insects won’t be attracted to go to the surface. Lastly, it comes in a multitude of colors. So, you can easily match it with your playground theme.
- Poured in place
It comes with a great curb appeal as it is extremely durable but does not require that much maintenance. The selling point of this playground floor is it enables wheelchair access. So, even people with disabilities are safe. You can easily add graphics to it and most importantly, it is available in different colors.
- Rubber tiles
Of all types of playground floor, the rubber tiles require the least maintenance. It is also perfect for wheelchair access. It comes in varying thickness and colors. It discourages mold and mildew growth.
- Engineered wood fiber
It is an economical choice but a drainage base is needed.
- Non-Infill Turf
It is highly durable and ADA compliant. It is perfect for outdoor activities that require critical fall heights.
Outdoor activities are fun but you have to make sure that the safeties of your kids are taken care off and it starts with choosing the right playground floor.
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