Decisions, decisions. Which is best, climbing frame or trampoline?
The gorgeous spring weather we've enjoyed lately means we have spent much more time in the garden. This is where I realised my children's toys are suddenly ridiculously too small.
In a recent post on Ready for Ten, I talked about my reluctance to let my children play out in the street alone. Bearing that in mind, I decided it was time to upgrade the play equipment and make a grown up move from Little Tykes. I imagined this would prove difficult. Our garden was more than big enough when they were toddlers, but now appeared much too small.
In my usual way, I questioned everybody I know about which toys were best and TP Toys came highly recommended. So, after hours of letting the kids drool over the TP Toys website off we went to a stockist. They have such a lot on show - and children get the chance to climb over it on site too.
Armed with my garden measurements, a sales assistant ran through what would fit, leaving the big decision between a trampoline or climbing frame. For me, this is an easy choice. I've had an inbuilt trampoline phobia since falling off one as a child. With visions of broken bones and missing teeth clouding my judgement, I opted for the climbing frame. I justified the expense to my husband in terms of health benefits for the children, such as staving off obesity, muscle strengthening, cardiovascular exercise, confidence building... what could be better?
TP climbing frames are brilliantly designed and modular, which means you can start off with a basic frame and buy additional add on sections of frame, slides or swings as and when. But if you'd like to know just how difficult putting up a climbing frame really is head over to Whimsical Wife for a look.
I'd say that in the eyes of a child, a garden full of play equipment is a dream. But if you're working to a tight budget it's worth checking out ebay and Freecycle. They always have outdoor play equipment available second hand at much lower prices. It's also a great idea to use the sites to recycle your old play equipment.
It's also important to note there are brilliant ways of getting children active in the garden for a lot less money. Deb Carrot's post on Ready for Ten gives a great selection of ideas for under £25.
What play equipment do you have in your garden? What one item would you recommend as the essential buy?
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mum
28 April, 2010
We have a TP climbing frame which, while ugly, has been so worth the investment. Bought it when 14yo was 4 and is now being loved and used by the little two. Plus you can get add-ons which multiply the fun.
Mine would love a trampoline but there is no room plus there is such the temptation to do flips and things. Got put off when a boy we know had to be carted off in an ambulance after one. He was out of action for a couple of weeks but recovered.
editor
28 April, 2010
Wendy, I am with you on the phobia, but for me it's swings. I can still see the ground approaching shortly before my head hit it and I knocked a tooth out, shortly after I decided it would be a good idea to let go while standing up and try and jump. My garden has a sad collection of no longer used play equipment and your post has given me the kick I needed to get it sorted. Thanks a million.
28 April, 2010
We have a trampoline and so far no accidents. Although i have a safety net and very strict rules. I have just bought a TP sandboat and my children love it we also have meerkat hideout on its way swing and slide combo. Of all the things i have bought for the garden the basket ball net is by far the most played with.
28 April, 2010
we bought a climbing frame, complete with ropes, swing, double swing, rope ladder, monkey bars (phew!!)
from 5 years old she has loved it, but now at 10 it is outgrown and she wants a trampoline. So depends on your child, I would think that a trampoline is not as taxing to the brain for games etc and could be boring for younger kids but won't be outgrown so fast as they mature, my next door has 16 year olds that still bounce!
Looks like we'll be getting a trampoline soon! (anyone want to buy a climbing frame?)
28 April, 2010
We've only ever had small items in our garden, plus bikes, scooters etc, - all things that can be put out of the way. I for one didn't want the garden turned into an eyesore filled with rusty climbing frames and faded chunky plastic toys. Children can make their own fun a lot of the time - if left to get on with it! When we were kids, we used to make dens in the bushes, put blankets over the washing line or against the fence to make tents, and use our imagination to make up games, or give our dolls a bath in a bowl of water on the grass, have pretend picnics, etc. I think it's something that today's children often miss out on. We're so busy providing all manner of 'exciting' play equipment for them, we take away their ability to think for themselves and use their initiative and imagination. Our two are now 8 and 9 and have grown into well- adjusted, bright, fun-loving girls - and - ooh! they never had a climbing frame or a trampoline in the garden. However did that happen? ;)
editor
28 April, 2010
Hi Michlan - thanks for commenting, we've never had a climbing frame or trampoline either, and I'm a big fan of blankets over the washing line - I can see where you are coming from but I don't think a climbing frame or trampoline specifically takes away imagination, think of the fun they can have with them - lots of creative games and adventures - much better than loafing on a sofa, I'd say. We've got an old swing in our garden and an old plastic see-saw, it's definitely time for them to go!
admin
29 April, 2010
I used to love using the trampoline at school when I was younger - the safety nets they have now are a brilliant feature as I was always petrified of jumping or diving over the side! I believe they are expensive so I'll start putting some money away now for one! Also I love the look of the climbing frame on the 'Whimsical Wife' link - both of these ideas keep kids where you know they're safe - worth me saving up for I reckon! :)
Sue
Ready For Ten team
29 April, 2010
@ Cheryl Hughes - My son is desperate for a basket ball net, perhaps that could be his next birthday present sorted :)
admin
30 April, 2010
@ Wendy and Cheryl Hughes - my son tried to put the ball in a very mini basketball net at playgroup today.. I think I might get one too.. start him early!!!
Sue
Ready For Ten team
09 November, 2011
Climbing is the best playground equipment..it helps in overall growth of children.
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