Fast Company Daily Bonus: U.S. playgrounds are boringly safe. New designs add a whiff of danger
May 3, 2025
Playgrounds are undergoing a thrilling transformation, leaving behind the mundane swings and slides. Designers are incorporating adventurous themes that embrace a bit of risk while still keeping safety in mind. This shift not only ramps up excitement but also prioritizes inclusivity, ensuring that children of all abilities can engage creatively and grow developmentally. Get ready for playgrounds that inspire imagination and encourage exploration!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Playgrounds Reflect Local Culture
- Playgrounds in the U.S. are evolving beyond traditional swings and slides to complex, themed, and sculptural play spaces.
- These new designs often reflect local history and culture, creating unique community-centered experiences.
Safe Heights Embrace Risk
- U.S. playgrounds are incorporating taller, climbable structures to provide a controlled sense of risk for children.
- Designers create "perceived danger" by making kids feel challenged without allowing dangerous falls.
Accessibility in Playgrounds
- Accessibility is a booming trend in playground design, with many parks fully accommodating children with disabilities.
- Play elements now include tactile features and full layouts that integrate diverse physical and sensory needs.