5 tips for designing an indoor play area for different age groups
How do you plan and select play equipment for your indoor play area according to the age of the children? When you're running an indoor play area for children aged 0 to 12, it's crucial to take into account the different age groups to provide an entertaining and enriching experience for every child who walks through your doors. In this article, we'll explore some tips on how to strategically design your indoor play area according to the age of the children, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Tip no. 1: Make safety a priority in compliance with standards
Safety is the key word when it comes to setting up an indoor play area for children. Make sure your facilities comply with the safety standards set out in EN 1176. This standard guarantees that collective play areas meet rigorous safety criteria.
When it comes to choosing play equipment according to age, it's best to rely on the recommendations of your suppliers. The standard requires each piece of equipment or structure to be clearly labelled with the appropriate age group. To make the most informed decisions, don't hesitate to ask professionals in the field for advice on the right play equipment for each age group.
Toddlers, for example, need a safe area with foam structures, slides and a ball pool. For older children, opt for larger, more complex tubular structures equipped with slides, mazes and monkey bridges to stimulate their imagination and motor skills.
Tip no. 2: Encourage development through play
Play is an essential way for children to learn and develop. When designing your indoor play area, think about what children will experience in each zone. For toddlers, concentrate on early-learning and motor skills games. Older children can benefit from physical activities and cooperative games to reinforce their social skills.
Think about interactive activities for birthdays too. Designing games where children have to work together encourages social development and strengthens the bonds between participants.
Tip no. 3: Integrate technology in the right way
Technology can be an excellent complement to traditional games. Introducing interactive elements such as an interactive floor, an interactive wall or even augmented reality can capture children's attention and offer them new experiences. Make sure you comply with the regulations in force, particularly as regards the warnings required for video games.
Tip no. 4: Diversify play areas
To appeal to a wider audience, consider creating additional play areas for older children, such as immersive playrooms, quizzes, go-karting or indoor climbing. This allows you to attract different age groups and offer a complete experience for the whole family. Make sure you meet the specific standards for each activity to ensure the safety of participants.
Tip no. 5: Match the design to the target age group
The design of the games and the environment plays a crucial role in getting children involved. If your park has a specific theme, make sure that the games fit in harmoniously with this theme while corresponding to the target age groups. Inconsistent design can lose the interest of children, especially pre-teens who are looking to feel more mature.
Bonus tip: Kylii Kids, your partner for interactive games 😊
If you're looking to update your play equipment or are planning to create a new play area, consider working with Kylii Kids. Our interactive games, such as the treasure hunt, can add an exciting dimension to your indoor park, attracting different age groups. Don't hesitate to contact us for more information on the right solutions for your needs.
Designing an indoor play area for children requires careful thought to provide a play experience tailored to each age group. By prioritising safety, encouraging development, integrating technology wisely and diversifying play areas, you can create an engaging and fun environment for every child who walks through your doors.
