| (ARA) - Summer is here and children home from school are thrilled
to spend time on their backyard playgrounds. While parents and children only think of the
fun they have on the equipment, playgrounds can assist in the development of a child's
coordination, imagination and social skills. Many parents today are building backyard
playgrounds.  Choosing a backyard playground is
not as easy as it seems. There are many important factors beyond a slide and swings to
consider:
Safety - There are no enforced safety
standards for residential playgrounds, so look for equipment that meets ASTM (American
Society for Testing and Materials) voluntary standards. ASTM compliant Playgrounds have
safety features such as, rounded corners, recessed hardware and vinyl safety sleeves on
the swing chains and avoid overlapping play zones, head or finger entrapments and choke
hazards.
Age Appropriateness - Playground systems
are meant to grow with children. Buy a system large enough to keep children interested as
they grow. Modularity of units is a plus because components such as monkey bars can be
added as children's abilities increase.
Quality - Find a playground system made
from a quality lumber, such as redwood, which is aesthetically beautiful, resistant to
decay and insect infestations and requires minimal upkeep.
Installation - Base-to-height ratios and
protective anchoring and surfacing are among the many guidelines that must be followed to
ensure a safe playground system. Look for professional installation to be sure. There are
many different sizes, options and accessories available for backyard playground systems.
Courtesy of ARA Content |
