DIY Background Playground

For a child, playing outside in your own backyard is one of life's simple pleasures. With a little creativity, you can turn your backyard into the ultimate adventure. Not only will your children have lots of fun-they will be getting plenty of fresh air and exercise. Staying active is important for growing bodies and creates healthy habits that will last into adulthood.

I'm not experienced in building. What can I do?

Creating your own backyard playground can be fun and exciting. It just takes a little creativity with items you may have in your garage or around your home to transform your back yard into the ultimate playground.

1. Obstacle Course

If you have some old tires in your garage you can use them to create an obstacle course.

• Lay them out in a staggered pattern and your children can take turns running through them.


• Use a stopwatch to time them.


• This is a really good exercise for adults too! Don't be afraid to join in the fun.

2. Balance Beam

Inspire your child's inner gymnast by building your own balance beam.

• You will need a post digger, or shovel to dig 2 deep holes in the ground for your posts to be secured.


• Add cement and place your boards into the holes and fill the gaps with dirt and firmly pack.


• Use a length of wood to create a bridge across and fasten to the 2 supporting posts.


• Surround the balance beam with sand to create a soft surface to fall onto.

3. Mud Pit

Who wants to mud wrestle?

• Fill an old baby pool with dirt and use your outdoor hose to create some muddy fun.

You don't have to spend an arm and a leg on expensive equipment. Use your imagination to create your own backyard playground.