Enhancing play and learning: Incorporating educational elements in commercial playground equipment

Playgrounds are more than just spaces for fun and physical activity—they are valuable opportunities for children to learn and grow. By incorporating educational elements into your playground designs, you can create an environment that not only promotes play but also fosters cognitive, social and physical development. Explore some effective ways to infuse educational elements into your school, childcare or community playground designs below.

Themed Playground Structures: Consider incorporating educational themes into the design of your playground environment. Whether it’s a nature-inspired structure or a space-themed play area, themed elements can spark children’s imagination and encourage imaginative play. From climbing walls resembling mountains to slides shaped like rocket ships, themed playground components and entire structures offer endless learning possibilities.

Alphabet and Number Panels: Integrate alphabet and number panels into your playground. These play panels can be installed on walls or integrated into climbing structures, helping children learn letters, numbers and basic math concepts as they play. Encourage interactive learning by incorporating sensory elements, such as different textures and braille.

Musical Play Equipment: Including musical elements like our Rhapsody® Outdoor Musical Instruments in your playground can enhance auditory skills and creativity. Install a selection of chimes, metallophones and drums to engage children in musical exploration. These features encourage collaboration, rhythm recognition and the development of fine motor skills.

Science and Nature Zones: Create dedicated spaces where children can explore scientific concepts and nature. Incorporate planters for gardening, sensory paths for tactile experiences and weather stations to teach about climate. By encouraging hands-on learning, you can foster curiosity and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

Sensory Play Stations: Incorporate sensory play elements into your playground design. Install sand play—sandboxeselevated sand tablesfossil digs, etc.—water play areas, and interactive sensory walls to stimulate children’s senses and promote cognitive development. Sensory play encourages problem-solving, fine motor skills and social interaction.

Storytelling and Reading Nooks: Designate areas for storytelling and reading within the playground. Install benches, small libraries or even mini amphitheaters where children can gather for storytime. We also love incorporating Talking is Teaching panels from Too Small to Fail into the playground design, or story trails along a walking path to encourage children and caregivers to talk, read and sing with each other. Encouraging literacy in a playful environment fosters a love for reading and language development.

By incorporating educational elements into your community, childcare and school playground designs, you can create a dynamic and enriching play space for children. Themed playstructures, alphabet panels, outdoor musical instruments, science zones, sensory play stations and storytelling nooks are just a few examples of how to infuse learning opportunities into the playground. Remember to consider age-appropriate designs and create an inclusive play environment that caters to children of all abilities. The combination of play and education will not only ignite children’s creativity and curiosity, but also provide a foundation for their lifelong love of learning.

Congratulations to PlayCreation, our 2022 Rep of the Year

2023 PlayCreation Team

We’re excited to announce that PlayCreation, our consultant covering Washington and Northern Idaho, was chosen as Landscape Structures’ 2022 Rep Organization of the Year. The award was presented to the PlayCreation team during our annual sales meeting earlier this year.

“PlayCreation was named 2022 Rep Organization of the Year because of their outstanding culture, the creativity their team brings to every aspect of the business, and their commitment to delivering the best-in-class service to their customers,” said Pat Faust, president of Landscape Structures. “PlayCreation has been a great partner of Landscape Structures as well as the playground design industry as a whole, and we are proud to have their team bringing our commercial playground equipment, shade sails and splash pad solutions to Washington and Northern Idaho.”

PlayCreation is known for developing long-term relationships, collaborating with customers to help bring their design ideas to life and continuing to deliver high-quality service for the life of the playground, splash pad and commercial shade structure. The team goes the extra mile for their customers and has fun while doing it.

“We couldn’t have done it without our customers,” said John Mullan, president of PlayCreation. “We’re fortunate to be living in these times where our job continues to get cooler because we’re helping communities throughout the area create fantastic playgrounds.”

Learn more about the team at playcreation.com.

The contemporary new anywhere playsystem

Forma™ brings a contemporary vibe to any play environment. With its architectural influences, endless color possibilities and open sightlines, create the perfect complement to any play setting, whether you’re looking for a nature-inspired style or something more modern. Kids will love the dynamic, challenging and inclusive play opportunities provided by Forma’s clean, angular design and sensory-rich mix of materials. Experience Forma here.

Forma Slides

Forma Alpine® Slide – Ages 5 to 12 – An easy-to-traverse belting ramp makes it easy to reach the slide and then swoop back down to the ground along the slide’s banking curve.

Forma SlideWinder2® Slide – Ages 5 to 12 – A belting ramp makes it easy get to the top of the Forma SliderWinder2 Slide, then the slide whooshes and curves riders back to the ground.

Forma Climbers

Fortress™ Multi-Climber – Ages 5 to 12 – With climbing challenges of varying difficulty, the asymmetrical shapes, unique angles, and mix of materials create play that looks and feels like nothing else.

Folio™ Balance Climber – Ages 5 to 12 – Deliver three unique dynamic experiences for children of all abilities in one unit with the slack line, cable-wrapped balance beam and wobbly steps.

Forge™ Climber – Ages 5 to 12 – The Forge Climber includes not only a large cable climber but also two unique panels with mirror cutouts for sensory play.

Footprint™ Steppers – Ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12 – Add Footprint Steppers to your Forma play area for more climbing activity or to play-functionally link different play events.

Footprint Balance Beam – Ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12 – Challenge kids to improve their balance and agility while they traverse the length of the Footprint Balance Beam.

Foxtrot™ Multi-Climber – Ages 2 to 5 – Stepping pods, a side-to-side climber, bouncy bridge, and shape sliders deliver active and sensory fun for many kids at once.

Forma Giggle Jiggler® Climber – Ages 2 to 5 – Kids will love to balance and shimmy on the Forma Giggle Jiggler, while a floating panel and stepper deliver extra sensory and active play.

Forma Sensory Fun

Focal™ Sensory Wall – Ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12 – Play on both sides deliver opportunities for walk-up or roll-up access so everyone can participate in the fun.

Fox Den™ Hangouts – Ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12 – Offer kids of all ages space to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy playground with seats for solo time or interaction with others.

Forma Motion & More Fun

Forma Sol™ Spinner – Ages 5 to 12 – Deliver valuable spinning motion kids need for healthy growth and development, plus more sensory fun with the Rain Sound Wheel Panel.

Footprint Wobble Stepper – Ages 5 to 12 – The Footprint Wobble Bouncer maintains the aesthetic of the Forma play area, while providing wiggly, bouncy fun for one or more kids.

Forma Swing Frame – ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12 – the clean, angular design of the Forma Swing Frame fits into your Forma playground design or adds visual interest to any play setting.

With its architectural influences, endless color possibilities and open sightlines, Forma creates the perfect complement to any play setting. See some of the suggested color palettes below, and go to playlsi.com/forma to explore more.

The beauty of play is that it’s not just play at all. It’s magic. An opportunity to make connections. Share that beauty of play with your community by contacting your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on your Forma playground designs today.

Play Connects Us

Connections. Our lives are built around them. At Landscape Structures, we see it every day. Everywhere. This is the beauty of play. An extraordinary opportunity for interaction and imagination. Coordination and cooperation. Freedom and fun. Play lets us connect to who we are and see our wonder amplified in the connections we make. That’s why, in everything we do, we celebrate the beauty of play.

You’ll find everything you need to complete your play environment in our 2023 Playground Equipment Catalog. From new products to featured designs, individual components and outdoor fitness equipment, we’ll ensure your play space is everything you imagine and more. Browse our digital catalog, then request a copy to find inspiration for your upcoming playground projects.

Make a true impact with a fully integrated shade system for your playstructure, splash pad or any activity area. From small to big shade, decorative to themed shade, we have flexible and stylish options for everywhere people like to gather. Browse the SkyWays® Shade Products virtual catalog, then contact us to get started on a new shade project.

Our splashtastic products engage kids’ imaginations, encourage exploration and deliver exhilarating new experiences with water to people of all abilities and on splash pads of all sizes. Discover how Aquatix® water-based activities can help you create a signature destination. Browse our digital catalog, then request a copy to get started on your splash pad projects.

All Together: Design Matters. Play Matters More.

Imagine integrated ramps, belting and berms connecting kids of all abilities to all levels—from the ground all the way to the tower tops. Or winding walking paths that unite multiple play areas with a fitness course to multigenerational family fun.

Well-designed play brings everyone together. It’s why landscape architects and playground designers are constantly creating wildly original and wondrous kid-centric worlds. Bring your community together, by design, and play! View the virtual publication and request a copy of the 2023 PLAY Book.

We build unique play value into each design by incorporating moments of landscape play that provides multiple options for a child’s next move. Or featuring creative designs that help playgrounds blend into—or stand out from—their surroundings. View all of the unique designs of the 2023 PLAY Book in the video below.

Design your playground so that children and families choose it as their preferred destination. Contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on your next playground design.

Welcoming and supporting all with Universal Design

Our design philosophy at Landscape Structures is heavily influenced by the tenets of Universal Design, a theory of design that strives to make environments more usable, safer and healthier for all. This philosophy has been part of our commitment to inclusion since co-founder, Steve King, was appointed to the Federal Access Board’s Recreation Access Advisory Committee in 1993.

Universal Design sets us up for equity, which is a step above equality. ​Equality is giving everyone the same treatment whereas equity is what we use to provide success and opportunity to all. ​So Universal Design goes beyond providing everyone the access to an even playing field… it delivers a chance to thrive in it.

Universal design simply means that it’s for everyone. Young, old, all levels of ability status, parents with a stroller, individuals that refuse to make two trips carrying the groceries inside… everyone. In theory, it should just be called design.

Our team of designers, engineers and inclusive play experts follow the Seven Principles of Universal Design:

  • Equitable Use. The design is useful to people with diverse abilities.

This is about as many people as possible being able to use a product in a really similar way. This is stuff like poured-in-place surfacing or turf with seamless transitions. People using mobility devices could roll on it as smoothly as non-users could walk on it. The We-Go-Round®, We-Go-Swing® and Sway Fun® glider are examples of playground components that fit this category.

  •  Flexibility in Use. The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities giving users a choice in how they engage each activity.

Flexibility in use offers choice to users, and a great example of this is the We-Go-Round. Individuals in wheelchairs can roll on and stay in their chairs or choose to transfer to the seat—they have and choice and can participate in whatever way they feel most comfortable. Other examples include the elevated sand table at different heights and multiple types of playground swings with unitary surfacing paths. It also includes having seating, sinks, hand dryers, adult-sized changing tables, etc. throughout the park and playground available for a variety of body heights and types to give people the option to find their flexible fit.

  • Simple and Intuitive Use. Use of the design is easy to understand regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills or current concentration level.

If an individual sees a drum, they know what to do with it. If they see the OmniSpin® Spinner, they know where to push it to make it go and where to sit to ride. It doesn’t cause stress or complications trying to figure it out. Obviously, there is a desire to provide challenge to kids on a play space with events that aren’t immediately intuitive, but in this case if the intent of the component is to spin, we want everyone to be able to figure that out quickly.

  • Perceptible Information. The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.

Symbol communication signs are a great tool to help all users communicate effectively while visiting parks and playgrounds. If there’s information people need to know or be able to communicate, it falls under this category. Think of a splash pad sign with all the rules—lots of words used to communicate “no eating” could easily be understood with a little circle crossing out food. It’s a more universal method of communication that more people can understand. Additionally, using color contrast and textures provide cues on changes in elevation, alert individuals to busier areas and much more.

  • Tolerance for Error. The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.

With this design principal, planners discuss adding a fence to a play space to help keep kids that may wander or run away stay safe and contained. Another example of this is incorporating barriers on a commercial playground structure, which is meant to reduce the chances of a child accidentally backing up and falling off it. Additionally, when there is mixed safety surfacing such as engineered wood fiber (EWF) with rubber, the EWF must stay maintained so that there aren’t any major drop-offs to create hazards. If there have a sand table or something a wheelchair is supposed to roll underneath, the surfacing should extend underneath the front wheels to avoid having those users tip forward.

  • Low Physical Effort. The design can be used efficiently and comfortably.

Anything that keeps user more comfortable for longer, is considered low physical effort. Commercial shade structures, and gradual, low grade are two big topics to consider. Additionally, consider swing seat choices as well as those for the ZipKrooz®. Think of the kid who fatigues a bit quicker, with the Molded Bucket Seat they can still get that zooming sensation, but in a reclined position that’s less demanding on them.

  • Size and Space for Approach and Use. Appropriate size and space are provided for approach, reach, manipulation and use regardless of user’s body size, posture or mobility.

This principal gives people the chance to move around comfortably. If a standard sidewalk is 36-inches wide and a wheelchair is 26 of those inches, there’s no size or space for anyone to move through the space alongside the wheelchair user. Going extra wide with paths allow not only users with mobility devices a more comfortable experience but so too someone with a service dog or cane, or someone deaf or hard of hearing. The same theory goes for double-wide ramps and activity panels on the playground. Is there room for someone to push up to and play with it? Or if a wheelchair user is engaging with something, is there enough room for others to get around the chair?

Through Universal Design, we increase access, safety, comfort and social participation within all our play environments. This process creates a strong foundation for inclusive playground design that ultimately results in a place where all can play, learn and grow together. Learn more about our commitment to inclusive play at playlsi.com, or by contacting your local playground consultant.

Spin Toward Tomorrow

At Landscape Structures, we believe that play is the best way to prepare for the future. In play, we get a taste of adventure. We dare ourselves to be brave. We rely on helping hands. We extend a hand to others. We take in a 360-degree view of all that’s left to be explored, and then come back to what grounds us. We can’t predict what’s waiting around every bend, but we can prepare ourselves for the dizzying opportunities tomorrow brings.

2022 Playground Equipment Catalog

You’ll find everything you need to complete your play environment in our 2022 Playground Equipment Catalog. From new products to featured designs, individual components and outdoor fitness equipment, we’ll ensure your play space is everything you imagine and more. Browse our digital catalog, then request a copy.

2022 SkyWays® Digital Catalog

Make a true impact with a fully integrated shade system for your playstructure, splash pad or any activity area. From small to big shade, decorative to themed shade, we have flexible and stylish options for everywhere people like to gather. Browse the SkyWays® Shade Products digital catalog, then contact us to get started on a new commercial shade project.

2022 Aquatix® Digital Catalog

Our splashtastic products engage kids’ imaginations, encourage exploration and deliver exhilarating new experiences with water to people of all abilities and on splash pads of all sizes. Discover how Aquatix® water-based activities can help you create a signature destination. Browse our digital catalog, then contact us to get started on your upcoming splash pad project.

Does your community or school have relief funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)? We can help enhance your outdoor spaces, support increased maintenance needs, address learning loss and student mental health, and much more. Contact us to learn how we can support your upcoming projects.

The benefits of commercial shade sails

Positive Tomorrows, Oklahoma

We all know the physical and emotional benefits to getting outdoors. Adding shade structures to outdoor spaces can increase visitors to your community parks, playgrounds, sports and recreation complexes, and more. With the added protection of shade, play sessions can be extended making the benefits of play and outdoor activity even greater. We can help you add commercial shade sails to your outdoor areas with SkyWays® shade structures, which offers flexible and stylish options to make everywhere that people gather outside more comfortable.

To appreciate the benefits of shade, it’s important to understand the risks and long-term effects of UV radiation and sun exposure. Evidence from the Skin Cancer Foundation shows that sun exposure and sunburns during childhood multiply the risk of developing skin cancer. And according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun’s UV rays in as little as 15 minutes—even when days are cool and cloudy. SkyWays commercial shade sails provide critical protection, blocking up to 97 percent of the sun’s UV rays while making temperatures underneath up to 30-degrees cooler.

When adequate shade is added to playgrounds and surrounding areas, kids are protected from UV exposure, and parents and caregivers are more likely to extend play sessions. Families may be more likely to extend their picnic or family outing if they’re keeping cool and protected under a shade. Additionally, schools are utilizing shade sails and structures to extend their classroom space to the great outdoors. By adding SkyWays shade sails to existing courtyards or a new outdoor classroom space, schools can embrace the benefits of nature for outdoor learning and not worry about sun exposure or inclement weather.

Outdoor classroom concepts

Even more, commercial shade sails can help protect your investment. Integrating SkyWays shade into your playground design or adding it after your outdoor space has been completed will shield it from the intense rays of the sun and protect it from harsh winter weather. Shade structures help to prevent premature fading and deterioration by keeping the color of equipment vibrant and preventing cracking that happens over time from sun exposure.

Learn more about SkyWays commercial shade structures, and contact your local Landscape Structures consultant to get started on a shade project for your park, playground, outdoor classroom, sports and recreation complex, or wherever you need shade today.

Innovative designs deliver a whimsical play experience

If you’re looking for innovative playground designs at affordable price points, you’ve come to the right place. Our design experts have curated a collection of preconfigured playground structures that are perfect for your community park or school playground! Our Smart Play® family of playstructures not only fit in a compact space, but they are packed with activities to help kids develop key sensory, motor, cognitive and social skills. Choose one or pair the Smart Play playstructures together to create a whimsical play experience.

Smart Play Billows

Smart Play Billows™ Imaginations will soar as kids ages 5 to 12 float across the sky on bridges, climbers and down two sensory-rich slides.

Smart Play Breeze™ Kids ages 2 to 5 will find plenty of airy insights to explore as they crawl, walk and climb up to the hot-air balloon basket.

Smart Play Tree Tops

Smart Play Tree Tops™ Give kids the sense of playing in the treetops as they navigate wiggly bridges, the 3-ring climber, roar down two slides and much more.

Smart Play Sprig™ Encourage kids ages 2 to 5 to explore leafy pods and flower blossoms while they flex their emerging skills on this fresh-as-spring playstructure.

Smart Play BeachComber™ Young imaginations are encouraged to go with the watery flow as they surge forth to explore oceans of activity.

Help create memories for kids in your community to look back on with these value-packed Smart Play playstructures. Learn more about this family of playstructures and contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on your playground design today.

Expand your campus learning environment

We all know the numerous benefits of being outdoors—it helps lower blood pressure, improves the immune system, reduces anxiety and improves mood. And with all we’ve experienced in 2020 so far, we could use an extra dose of nature. Why not embrace the benefits of nature while also maximizing your campus’ available space? Take learning outdoors!

Not only are outdoor classrooms a good option to explore during the global pandemic, but it’s a great way to expand school learning spaces for use well into the future. We can help you design an outdoor classroom whether you’re looking to transform your existing atrium or courtyard or create an entirely new space. Go here to see samples of our outdoor classroom concepts using our conceptual design for a Permalene® desk and other playground elements.

When designing your outdoor learning environment, be sure to include opportunities for your students to engage in fun, hands-on activities. Rhapsody® Outdoor Musical Instruments, stage and performance areas, HealthBeat® or FitCore™ Extreme fitness equipment all deliver the chance for students to take what they’re learning inside the classroom to the great outdoors.

And don’t forget about safety. Our SkyWays® shade structures are available in a variety of heights, lengths, and coverage areas to fit any space or budget requirements. These commercial shade sails will help create a comfortable and safe learning environment. Plus, we have the Play Healthy™ Hand Sanitizer Station to provide students easy access to hand sanitizer upon entering or exiting the outdoor classroom.

We welcome the opportunity to assist you in creating an extension to your campus’ learning environment that encourages learning while keeping kids healthy. Learn more by contacting your local Landscape Structures playground consultant.