Author: Spike Amusement

Can Adults Benefit from a Swing Set? Absolutely!

Swing sets aren’t just for kids. Increasingly, adults are discovering the physical, mental, and social perks of swinging. From low‑impact workouts to stress relief, swinging offers a surprising range of benefits for grown‑ups. This guide dives deep into why you should reclaim the swing set—and how to choose the right adult‑friendly equipment. 1. Introduction When […]

Is It Better to Build a Swing Set or Buy One?

Choosing between building your own swing set (DIY) and buying a prebuilt model can be daunting. Both options have pros and cons across cost, time, skill, safety, and convenience. This guide breaks down each factor to help you make an informed decision. 1. Cost Comparison 1.1 Materials and Hardware 1.2 Tools and Equipment 1.3 Installation […]

10 Fun Outdoor Games to Play as a Family

In today’s screen-saturated world, carving out quality family time outdoors has never been more important. Engaging in simple, active games not only fosters close connections but also encourages creativity, cooperation, and healthy exercise for everyone—from toddlers to grandparents. Whether you have a spacious backyard, a cozy patio, or easy access to a neighborhood park, these […]

Budgeting for a New Playground: A Comprehensive Cost Guide

Planning a new playground is an exciting community project—but without a clear budget, costs can quickly spiral out of control. While purchasing play equipment often represents the largest line item, several other expenses must be accounted for to ensure a safe, attractive, and durable play area. In this guide, we break down the key budget […]

Parks vs. Playgrounds: Key Differences Explained

Parks and playgrounds are essential components of vibrant communities, offering spaces for recreation, socialization, and connection with nature. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, parks and playgrounds serve distinct purposes and feature different amenities, safety considerations, sizes, locations, and costs. Understanding these differences can help community planners, parents, and park administrators make informed decisions […]

The Different Types of Playground Swings

Playground swings are timeless favorites that spark joy, encourage social play, and support physical development in children of all ages. Modern parks strive to offer a diverse range of swing styles—classic belt swings, toddler-friendly bucket swings, inclusive adaptive swings, and more—to ensure every child can join the fun. In this guide, we’ll explore the most […]

Why Wooden Playgrounds Are slowly Becoming Extinct

Wooden playgrounds once symbolized childhood summers and neighborhood fun. Dating back to the mid-19th century, timber structures dominated until steel, plastic, and composite materials rose to prominence. Today, however, wood-built play areas are rapidly disappearing from parks worldwide. Why are communities phasing out these nostalgic icons in favor of modern alternatives? In this comprehensive guide, […]

Elements of a Successful Public Park

Public parks are more than just patches of green amid concrete—they are vital community assets that foster recreation, well-being, and social connection. Yet not every park automatically becomes a beloved gathering place. Designing and maintaining a successful public park requires thoughtful planning, community input, and ongoing care. This article explores the core elements that distinguish […]

Where Have All the Fast-Food Playgrounds Gone?

Fast-food restaurants have long been synonymous with family-friendly outings: quick meals for grown-ups paired with play areas to entertain kids. For decades, playgrounds at major chains (such as McDonald’s PlayPlace, Burger King’s King’s Island, or Wendy’s outdoor playsets) were a key attraction. However, in recent years, many of these on-site playgrounds have vanished. Parents and […]

6 Common Playground Problems and How to Help

Playgrounds are vital spaces where children learn, socialize, and develop physically and emotionally. However, children with learning and thinking differences—such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or sensory processing challenges—often face unique obstacles on the playground. Additionally, general safety or social dynamics can pose difficulties for any child. Recognizing and addressing these common playground problems helps […]