Play Involving Shade & Seating

When thinking about playgrounds and how we utilize outdoor recreation spaces, the topics of shade and seating aren't typically ones that are top of mind. But they should be! A 2007 report by the Canadian Journal of Public Health indicates that shade is a key factor in influencing the decisions parents make when determining which playground or park they choose to visit.

In this podcast episode, we spoke with Danielle and Kathleen. Both are play experts with RecTek Industries (now Parkworks) and busy moms, so they understand just how important it is to have play spaces available that encourage kids to stay out longer, while keeping them safe. During our discussion, Danielle and Kathleen both emphasized the role that shade plays in outdoor recreation spaces and explored some different ways to introduce shade to an outdoor space.

Shade can come in many different shapes and sizes, and the desire for shade will differ from location to location. In some instances, natural features such as trees can provide ample shade for outdoor play structures, where other facilities and parks may require man-made shade structures to fill that need. If there is a need for shade and you opt for natural shade solutions, be sure to consider the different types of trees available and make sure that they will be placed in optimal locations for both summer and winter. It’s also important to consider how long newly planted trees will take to grow to a point where they can actually provide shade. In the meantime, a man-made solution might be needed.

When it comes to man-made shade solutions, there are lots of great options to choose from that are built to withstand the elements. Structural shelters over picnic tables provide both shade and seating and can often create gathering places for family gatherings and birthday parties. Shade Sails are also an excellent option, as they come in various sizes and can be customized for each project. They are durable against the elements and can be removed to allow for more Vitamin D exposure as kids play during the winter months.

Play structures themselves can also act as forms of shade on a playground. Some will have roofs above certain features, while raised decks and platforms create shade opportunities underneath. Adding features such as hammocks in these spaces can help entice children to take a break from the sun and tuck themselves away where it might be cooler. Adding shade to an outdoor recreation zone is a great way to help combat concerns surrounding sun exposure and rising temperatures, ensuring that kids can still get outside in the fresh air and have fun.

While shade is important, it’s also important to think about how seating fits into the equation too. Children may not be focused on the variety of seating options, but the parents or caregivers bringing them to a park or playground will be. Ensuring that there is ample seating, especially in shade, is crucial to ensuring that everyone can enjoy the space, regardless of their age or ability. As with shade options, seating can come from a variety of different places, including both natural and man-made. Natural seating might see tree stumps reimagined into stools, or fallen logs repurposed as benches. Rocks are another great natural seating option for outdoor spaces. These options can all be considered extensions of a play environment, where children can climb and explore, but also function as seating. Man-made seating solutions might look like benches, stools, or picnic tables installed throughout the space.

As you are planning a park or playground, it’s important to consider that the space will be used for, and let those details inform the design. If the aim is to create a park where people will gather for family outings or birthday parties, then providing a shaded space with ample seating, such as picnic tables, is going to be important. You’ll also want to keep accessibility in mind and provide both seating and shade solutions for those who may have mobility limitations in mind. When it comes to the cost of shade and seating, it really depends on the space and the type of structure you’re looking at.