As we seek to ensure that our children develop both socially and physically, multi use games areas have become a priority. They will allow children to undertake many different forms of activity, whilst teaching them how to play together as a group and in pairs.
Safety
Safety ranks highly in all surfaces and equipment provided for these areas, and must comply with very stringent standards that are laid down under government regulations. The equipment will be tested to a very high standard. The equipment will be designed for children who are under say 10 to be able to play safely on a recreational basis, whilst also allowing for older children to use it. The posts will be constructed to a specific dimension and will need to be rebound designed, so that the impact they will receive during a play session does not make them insecure.
Surface
This will be of tarmac, of a synthetic material that will create a grass like surface, or a polymeric surface. The surfaces must be designed so that they are non-slip and that should a child fall that they will not damage their skin.
For older children to use they will be marked out so that they can play games such as football, netball, hockey, volleyball, tennis, basketball and other sports. All of these games are contact sports and thus this needs to be borne in mind when installing the equipment. The marking of the surfaces should be such that it is easy to define the various courts, so that the games can be played within the rules
With the protection of children in mind, it important to remember that there are people who would wish to abuse them, and thus the perimeter fencing around these areas should be such that the children can be safe while playing. The gate to the area should be lockable or should be of the turnstile type so that it takes time to enter and leave. Seats should be placed in a safe position for parents to be able to sit and watch their children play.
With products for a multi use games area available from safeandsoundplaygrounds.co.uk you can be sure that you will receive high quality playground equipment, at a competitive price.