Trim trails. Balancing beams. Climbing frames.

They’re all playground classics, and have been enjoyed by generations of school children up and down the country for decades.

Whilst more and more schools are incorporating high-quality playground equipment, you might be considering it yourself, and wondering how it can benefit your schoolyard.

In this post, our school playground equipment specialists at Setter Play walk you through the five biggest advantages that quality play equipment has to offer, and why it’s a non-negotiable addition to the playground.

1. Improves academic performance

Many studies have shown that children who are more physically active achieve higher grades, particularly in numeracy and literacy.

Having playground equipment, like rock climbing walls and trim trails, for example, provides pupils with the ideal place to refresh their brains and blow off some steam during their break times. It also facilitates their learning and development by allowing them to engage with the world they learn about in the classroom -– even if subconsciously.

2. Encourages physical development

The difference between an empty, dilapidated playground and one fully kitted out with exciting equipment can significantly impact usage – with students much more likely to engage in physical activity in a more appealing playground.

It’s no secret that increased physical activity can have many positive effects on children’s health, including reduced stress and anxiety, increased muscle development, improved cardiovascular health, and stronger bones.

3. Promotes problem-solving

Problem-solving is an important life skill, and certain types of school playground equipment can help children develop these abilities, and in many different ways.

These include:

• Navigating obstacles – By playing on trim trails and climbing frames, for example, children can learn to navigate obstacles, manage risks and learn their limits as they move around the structure.
• Adapting games – Using many different types of equipment, children can adapt their own games to include their friends on the playground.
• Pretend play – Imaginative play structures, like play houses and trains, performance stages and castles, allow children to create stories, explore social roles and practice their language skills.
• Strategic thinking – Additions such as puzzle and activity line markings can help children develop their strategic thinking, concentration and communication skills 

4. Helps develop essential skills

Not only does play equipment help children build on their problem-solving abilities, but it also helps them develop a range of other skills, including both fine and gross motor skills.

By climbing and swinging around different structures, children are able to build strength in their arms, legs, fingers and upper body, as well as develop their hand-eye coordination skills and improve their balance.

5. Boosts mental health

Anxiety and depression are among some of the most common mental health conditions in the classroom, and 1 in 5 children and young people aged 8-25 suffer from probable disorders.

It’s no secret that spending time outside can work wonders for our mental health, and encouraging children to be out in the fresh air and physically active with exciting playground equipment is one of the best remedies for anxiety, depression and stress, and helps little ones overcome the pressures of their academic lives.

Need help choosing the perfect school playground equipment?

Here at Setter Play, we’ve been designing, manufacturing and installing high-quality play equipment for schools and nurseries up and down the UK.

From your initial consultation to the final installation and beyond, we’re with you every step of the way and will stop at nothing to ensure your playground is a safe, fun place for your school children.

To find out more about our range, or to discuss designing bespoke play units, give our experts a call today on 01462 817 538 or email us at [email protected] and we’ll be in touch to answer your questions!