What will outdoor playgrounds of the future be like?

Playgrounds have been an essential part of childhood for generations – a place of fun, laughter and fresh air, where young friendships bloom. They’re also critical to children’s cognitive, physical and social development. In the era of video games and social media, children don’t get outside enough, so making these outdoor spaces popular is more important than ever. It’s predicted that tomorrow’s playgrounds will become less about sliding and more about interaction, education and imagination. Here are some of the innovations you can expect to see in the outdoor playgrounds of the future:

Digital elements

Playgrounds have been late to adapt to digital innovations, but this is expected to change in coming years. It’s likely that the outdoor playgrounds of the future will combine elements of digital gaming technology with outdoor play. Games like Pokémon Go and other social technologies are likely to become more popular, combining lights, sound and interaction for ultimate outdoor fun.

More interaction

Outdoor playgrounds of the future are likely to have less climbing or sliding equipment and more abstract structures without a concrete purpose. Children will then use their imagination to determine how they use the space. Each time they return to the playground, they will interact with one-another to create a new, exciting and different experience, that keeps them constantly entertained.

Enhanced safety

With growing safety regulation of parks and schools, it’s likely that safety will become a stronger focus in the future. Play equipment will likely be kept closer to the ground to avoid injuries and, when it does reach higher levels, there is likely to be a softer material below to catch falls.

Enhanced inclusivity

It’s predicted that outdoor  playgrounds of the future will be a more inclusive and social place for children of all cognitive and physical abilities. Specialised furniture is likely to play a big part in this, with parks and schools offering plenty of accessible and interactive wheelchair settings, along with other activities designed specifically for children with learning difficulties.

More colour

Gone are the days of the bleak, metal and concrete jungle gym. Children’s spaces are becoming increasingly bright and colourful, with more and more research indicating the positive effects colour can have on mood, emotion and even concentration. It’s likely that the future of the playground will be very colourful. Technologies like coloured powder coating are already available and it’s likely that you’ll be able to customise your colours even more in the future.

As a wholly Australian owned and operated business, nobody understands the requirements of Australian schools and councils like Felton Industries. We’re committed to providing the highest quality of furniture, ensuring Australians have the most comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experiences possible. For more information about furniture tailored to your unique needs, get in touch with our friendly team today.