It can be hard to know where to start when designing a playground. Whether you're starting with a blank canvas, wanting to update existing designs or just filling an empty gap, choosing the right playground markings for your space can be daunting.
To help you decide, we've curated a list of our ten most popular playground markings throughout 2023. Each one has been carefully designed to promote learning, physical activity and encourage social interaction through outdoor play.
If you have a clear vision for your playground but are uncertain about the best way to implement it in your available space, don't worry – we're here to help. We offer a free, in-person site survey to gain a thorough understanding of your school's unique environment and specific requirements. This allows us to offer customised recommendations and expert advice, ensuring that your playground exceeds your expectations, blending effortlessly with your school's setting. With our guidance, you can confidently create a playground that is both functional and inspiring, perfectly tailored to your school's needs. Book your visit now!
Top Ten Most Popular Playground Markings in 2023
Hopscotch is a timeless game of skill and fun. Players take turns tossing a small object into the numbered squares. The player then hops through the squares, skipping the one with the object in it, and returns. Balance and coordination are key, as players can only use one foot in the single squares. The game continues with players progressing through the numbers, enhancing number recognition along the way.
Transforming the classic board game into a life-size playground experience, players begin at the start and roll a dice to move forward. Landing at the base of a ladder means climbing up, while encountering a snake's head sends players sliding down. It’s a thrilling game that encourages social interaction and strategic thinking.
Set up teams and start a game of netball, a sport focusing on passing and shooting the ball into a high net. Players must adhere to specific areas depending on their role, encouraging teamwork and understanding of game rules. This activity is a fantastic introduction to team sports and developing skills such as strategic thinking, communication and physical coordination.
These exercise track playground markings are a versatile and fun way to encourage movement . Participants can time their laps as they progress around the track, stopping at each section and following the instructions on the ground. Not only does it encourage physical activity, but also develops comprehension skills as children interpret the visual instructions.
Children sit in a circle, and one player walks around tapping heads saying "duck" until they choose someone at random and say "goose." The "goose" then stands and chases the first player around the circle, trying to tag them before they can sit down in the "goose's" spot. It's a game full of laughter and promotes quick thinking and agility.
A delightful game marking that combines storytelling with physical activity. It's a fantastic way to engage children in imaginative play while teaching them about time-telling in an interactive manner. It also promotes group participation, engagement and can help build a sense of community among players.
This grid can be used for various games, including number tag, where a number is called, and players race to stand on it, or for mathematical puzzles, such as finding sums that lead to specific numbers. It’s an excellent tool for developing numeracy and number recognition in a brightly coloured, engaging setting.
Use this marking to teach basic orientation and geography. Children can learn cardinal directions and how they relate to maps. Incorporating a linked map can turn this into a navigational exercise, enhancing spatial awareness and map-reading skills. Combined with a map playground marking, customised with a 'we are here' feature at the school's location, this helps children understand their own location in relation to major cities and landmarks but also provides a practical context for their geographical learning. Such a visual and interactive approach makes the concept of geography more tangible and engaging, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of their surroundings and the wider world.
An excellent educational tool, our Teaching Clock marking offers a unique and engaging method for children to learn to tell time. This ground marking, designed as a large clock face, allows kids to actively participate in the learning process. They can use their bodies as the clock hands, making the concept of time more tangible and understandable. This hands-on approach not only aids in grasping the basics of hours and minutes but also enhances their motor skills and spatial awareness. Learning to tell time through such interactive play is not only crucial for their everyday learning but also makes the experience memorable and enjoyable.
This innovative design encourages children to follow movements and patterns, enhancing their memory, coordination, and mimicry skills. By engaging in these activities, children are not only having fun but also boosting crucial cognitive and physical abilities. The process of observing and replicating patterns aids in sharpening their memory, while the physical aspect of mimicking movements helps in refining their coordination. Such interactive play is key in fostering a well-rounded developmental experience, blending educational growth with physical exercise in a playful and stimulating environment.
All of these designs are fully customisable, allowing you to tailor them to fit the specific needs and interests of your school community. Whether you want to adjust colours, sizes, or incorporate specific educational themes, the flexibility of these markings ensures that your playground can be as unique and dynamic as the children who use it. This customization not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the playground but also maximizes its educational and developmental potential.