5 Simple Rules for Designing a Safe & Profitable Indoor Playground

The perfect indoor playground is more than just colorful slides and fun activities. It should be a safe and fun environment for the kids to play in and a well designed one for business owners to operate efficiently and profitably. Safety and business goals are inseparable and play a crucial role in customer attraction, customer enjoyment, customer satisfaction and repeated business. Simple design choices can bring huge returns in the satisfaction of your clients, and the overall operating expenses of the business for a great many of playground operators. Design choices need only to be made in the early planning stages in order to make a play space that is safe for the children, increases staff efficiency, and allows the business that you operate to continue to grow.

Keep clear sightlines for parent supervision

The general design rule of an indoor playground is that there shouldn't be any blind spots within the entire area. Children feel safe when they can see their parents anywhere within the playground, this also reassures the parents that their children are safe and sound in the play center. A happy child, with their happy parent who is constantly able to see them no matter what part of the playground they are in, is sure to spend a good amount of time in the play center.This is why setting up giant structures, walls, or décor that obstruct the line of sight of children by adults can become problematic. It might look impressive and create visually appealing play areas, however it causes numerous blind spots and makes it extremely difficult to monitor every child in the play area. It may even be more difficult to supervise staff in such scenarios.Instead, play equipment should be set up in such a way that open views are visible from all areas. Most modern Playland indoor playground have lower constructed play areas around the seating areas with taller, more exciting attractions around the center of the playground or in the middle of it. Open framed structures as well as clear barriers or mesh walls in addition to transparent barriers should be utilized to give a great time without sacrificing visibility.Also keep in mind that the seating area is an important factor when designing a play center for the parent. Many parents would prefer seating areas that overlook multiple play areas. Placing the parent seats so that they have a good view of a smaller play area as well as a bigger play area will give a sense of security for parents who have children playing in separate sections of the playground.Finally clear sightlines will not only create better parent observation but also allow for quick intervention from staff. With clear sightlines an employee will be able to easily notice if a child falls down, becomes overly upset, or cannot reach the playground and requires staff attention. They are better able to respond to any issues at the play center in a faster way. Many good indoor play centers test their floor plans by imagining they are somewhere within the play center and trying to look out at the entire area. Many potential issues can be avoided with a small amount of effort on the part of the operator before building.Confidence gained when parents feel that they are readily able to monitor their children in the play center, may translate into positive online reviews and customer word of mouth.

Separate active zones from quiet zones

A simple design principle can help increase safety and the visitor experience – separating active zones from quiet zones. Commercial indoor playset can be used in different ways by children of varying ages and personality types. Some may like the nature of climbing, running and being physically active; others will like a quieter area to play, read, create and take a short break. If these activities are combined, then it is possible to create conflicts and accidents.First, consider what type of attractions lead to the greatest amount of movement. Climbing structures, slides, obstacle courses and trampolines should be set up in specific active areas. These areas are naturally going to be a draw for energetic kids and make a clear area where running and physical activities are expected.When possible, set up quiet zones where they will not be near the most popular attractions. It is best to have a toddler section, sensory area, arts and craft area, reading corner, or family seating area away from noisy, moving activities. This Indoor sensory playground makes young children feel more at ease and less likely to fall in places that are intended for younger children.Many family entertainment facilities have toddler play areas behind low barriers, or in an area that is designated for toddler play. It's great that parents like the fact that their younger children can play in an environment that is less cluttered with the hustle and bustle of bigger children running around.The separation doesn't have to be limiting. The colour scheme, flooring patterns, signage and positioning of equipment can be used to direct visitors from one area to another, as these will be natural features. There are also wide walkways between activity areas which help to decongest the site during busy times.This design is also good for the employees. Each area is clearly defined, enabling employees to oversee each area more effectively. Staff members are allocated to the toddler areas to work with the younger children, and to the other more stimulating areas to monitor the more active play.With careful planning of active and quiet areas, children have opportunities to participate in activities that are suitable for their interests and energy. Parents experience less stress, staff are able to work more efficiently and there is a smoother running of the playground throughout the day.

Ensure enough cushioning height under climbing areas

Climbing areas are typically the most thrilling experience at an indoor playground, but they're also a risk of falling. That is why, it is essential that you do not take proper cushioning under these structures lightly. The aim is to minimize impact in the event of an unintended child falling, losing balance, or jumping off a height.The first step is to match the fall height of the equipment to an appropriate type and thickness of pad. If the structure is a low one such as soft foam mats for toddlers, then only soft foam mats are required; however, if the structure is a multi-level play frame or a rope course, a thicker impact-absorbing floor is required. A number of operators employ EVA foam tiles or rubber flooring that is made for playground use because it is able to distribute the force from a fall more evenly.It is also important to cover the entire landing area – not just the obvious places. Children don't fall the same way twice. They can fall sideways, roll or jump suddenly. Avoid leaving gaps in padded areas, as this will create weak spots that can lead to risk of injury.A good case in point: a small indoor playground with the installation of a two-level climbing tower. Initially they just laid the mats right beside the ladder. They made a couple of mistakes and ended up straying out of the protected zone, but they increased the zone of cushioning to a larger radius. The number of minor injuries fell rapidly and parents were more comfortable allowing their children to explore.A small detail that is often missed is securing the cushioning. Slipping mats are a tripping hazard. If mats or flooring interlocks it is very unlikely to slip.Maintenance and inspection of the cushioning is vital too. Foam flattens out and rubber wears over time particularly in areas of high usage. The parts that are worn can be easily replaced to ensure that they continue to protect as they were designed to do.Good cushioning is not only about protection, it encourages trust too. When parents have confidence that areas for climbing etc are well cushioned they will permit their child to try things without them constantly looking over their shoulder. This often encourages them to stay for longer as well.