Outdoor playset

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The backyard swingset has changed dramatically during Generation X. While traditional metal swingsets from the local department store are still the staple for single family households, the outdoor playset has become increasingly popular. The outdoor playset innovation started with child care facilities to fill the need between a single family swingset and commercial playground equipment. Outdoor playsets are more affordable and require less space than commercial equipment while outperforming the family swingset with increased durability, additional accessories and supporting simultaneous play for more participants.

1 Components
2 Accessories
3 Safety
- 3.1 Play surface
4 See also
5 External links
6 References

[edit] Components

The basic building unit of an outdoor playset is the Tower. A tower is a vertical structure with one or more decks placed at various levels. A deck is essentially a horizontal play surface contained within or attached to a tower. Towers may be connected with other structures using Connector accessories such as a bridge (fixed or chain). A variety of Accessories can be attached to the Towers to support a broad range of activities.

[edit] Accessories

Rope Ladder

Sandbox, slides (covered and uncovered), rope ladders, swings, monkey bars, picnic tables

[edit] Safety

In July 2001, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that each year, more than 200,000 children are taken to hospital emergency rooms due to playground-related injuries. Most injuries occur when a child falls onto the playground surface.^[1]

[edit] Play surface

There are many surfacing (sand, pea gravel, wood chip, shredded rubber, asphalt) and perimeter (concrete, timbers, wood) options. The length and width of the perimeter will depend on the dimensions of the play equipment selected. The depth should be based on a CPSC recommendations for the type of surface materials and maximum possible fall height.