Guest blog by Elizabeth
Kids love to have spaces and structures that are all their own. A treehouse can be a clubhouse, a pirate ship, a gathering place for friends or even just a space to get away from things and relax in private. A swing set can easily become a spaceship in the eyes of a child. With this in mind, spending money on a playhouse or a jungle gym seems like a no-brainer – they get the kids outdoors enjoying physical activities and expanding their minds.
However, there is a way to make these items even more special and bond with your kids at the same time. Instead of buying these items pre-made and manufactured, why not design and build your own in consultation with your children? A playhouse that has the exact window-frames that your child imagined is one they will really cherish.
Design and Inspiration
Your child will almost certainly already have a wish-list for the perfect playhouse or jungle gym. While you may have to gently explain to them that you can’t actually manage to acquire the materials that will let it fly off into the air, you will most likely be able to fulfill many of their requests.
Maybe they want a porch with a light so they can sit out with their lemonade, or a particular shape of roof for the playhouse. They might have a strong desire for a plank set on the jungle gym so they can more easily play at being pirates. Just ask them to draw you a picture of their ideal creation and see how you can translate it to reality.
There are numerous tutorials available online that show you how to easily design and construct children’s play areas and jungle gyms to the highest safety standards, as well as books from experts with step-by-step guides.
Construction
This isn’t something you necessarily need CAT heavy equipment for. Depending on your design you may be able to get away without using any power tools at all. If you are less experienced, it may be better to start off with a design that you can follow easily and later add on modifications and customization.
Your children’s ages and personality will play a big part in what tasks are safe and appropriate for them to perform, but all kids can help with digging holes, carrying nails and pieces of wood, and painting the finished creation. They can also keep you well-supplied with cold drinks as you work.
Working together on the project will help you to forge a deeper relationship with your child as well as providing them with a unique jungle gym or playhouse that matches what they have been dreaming of.
