Did you know that children spend approximately 1,200 hours on the schoolyard during their primary school years? That’s a lot of time spent outside, whether it’s climbing, sliding, or simply enjoying the fresh air. While school playgrounds may have seen a dip in activity during the pandemic years, it’s time to revitalize these outdoor spaces and make them more engaging than ever.
As we move into 2025, here are some simple yet effective ways to breathe new life into your tired school playground:
1. Install Playground Markings
Looking for affordable school playground equipment to encourage physical activity? Thermoplastic line markings are a great option. These durable markings offer a variety of designs, from sports courts that promote balance and coordination to roadways and play towns that enhance imaginative play. Children can scoot around in an orderly fashion, learning about road safety while having fun. It’s a low-cost solution that offers high impact!
2. Add a Touch of Excitement
Hopscotch, hide and seek, and duck-duck-goose are timeless playground games that foster teamwork, balance, and coordination. But kids also love using their imagination. What might be a climbing frame to us can turn into a princess’ castle or a secret den for them. Adding fun school playground equipment such as climbing frames, slides, or obstacle courses can take imaginative play to the next level, sparking creativity and excitement every day.
3. Add Seating
Not every child is running around during playtime, and seating is just as important. Playground benches provide a place for children to rest, eat lunch, or socialize. They also give teachers a comfortable space to supervise, and they’re perfect for parents waiting for school dismissal. With a variety of sizes and designs to choose from, you’ll find seating solutions that suit both your space and needs.
4. Don’t Forget Shelters
When winter arrives, the temptation to stay indoors can lead to missed opportunities for outdoor play. By installing shelters and canopies, you can extend the playtime no matter the weather. These canopies provide shelter from rain and sun, allowing lessons to be taken outdoors and keeping everyone comfortable. Plus, they’re perfect for parents waiting at school gates. Setter Play offers a wide range of cost-effective shelters, from bike racks to bespoke entrance canopies.
5. Consider Eco-Friendly Play Options
As sustainability becomes increasingly important, why not make your playground more eco-friendly? Consider incorporating natural play elements like sand pits, water features, or wooden climbing structures. These elements not only blend beautifully with the environment but also promote children’s connection to nature. With more schools focusing on sustainability in 2025, this is a great way to show that environmental consciousness starts at the playground.
Need an Expert Opinion?
At Setter Play, we specialize in creating innovative and engaging playgrounds for schools across the UK. Whether you’re looking to make simple upgrades or transform your entire playground, our team is here to help. Get in touch with us today to discuss your vision. You can call 01462 817 538, email [email protected], or fill out our online enquiry form. We look forward to hearing from you!
