When looking to create an engaging indoor play area for children, soft play equipment is a great option. Deciding on the best soft play equipment, structures, and components to include requires considering some key factors to optimize safety, enjoyment, and return on investment.
Taking Into Account Space and Layout
An essential initial step is measuring the space intended for soft play equipment installation. The square footage available and shape of the space will determine what types of structures and play components can be arranged within it. Circular climbing towers with integrated slides, tunnels, and nets require a wider area than play structures designed to mount along a wall. Rectangular spaces may accommodate play systems with multiple levels connected via steps and ramps. With proper measurements and an idea of the space’s limitations, facility managers can begin sourcing the optimal soft play equipment.
Maximizing Play Value
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when selecting the best combination of interactive elements to maximize the play experience. Structures accommodate varying degrees of physical climbing challenges, with some multi-level designs towering 16 feet high. Slides, padded climbing nets, sensory elements, and ball pits cater to diverse ages and abilities. Facilities want equipment that fosters social, physical, and cognitive skills through independent and collaborative play. Interchangeable components like floor piano tiles allow switching out features over time to maintain freshness. The right mix promotes hours of creative engagement and developmental growth through play.
Attending to Safety and Durability
Child safety remains the number one priority in soft play spaces. This requires equipment made with non-toxic, antibacterial materials that meet and exceed the ASTM F2373 standard for safety. Padding must cushion falls and be securely fastened without posing strangulation hazards. Designs must prevent entrapment or situations where children get stuck. Weight limitations and minimum user heights instruct proper, safe use. Durability factors in too, with puncture-proof covering and strong frames tested to withstand years of climbing, sliding, and bouncing activity from kids. Facility managers will benefit from working with experienced commercial soft play manufacturers for insight on material quality, construction safety, and weight tested integrity.
Operating Within Facility Budgets
Managing a location’s equipment budget includes balance between desired aesthetic appeal, safety, variety of activities, and cost. Soft play structures using durable steel frames and antimicrobial, flame-retardant padding tends to cost more than residential grade products but provide safer, longer-lasting performance. Components like interactive wall panels, custom graphics, and add-ons offer more ways to engage children than basic structures alone while working within set budgets. Leasing soft play equipment allows upgrading more frequently to maintain freshness. Procurement professionals can negotiate pricing discounts on larger bulk orders to maximize purchases.
Selecting the ideal soft play equipment for a kids’ facility requires considering key factors like space constraints, play value, safety standards, durability, and budget. Working closely with reputable manufacturers, following safety guidelines, and creatively mixing colorful structures and components leads to imaginative soft play spaces that safely entertain children while providing sound returns on investment.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.