Elevating education: Celebrating assistant principals and enriching playgrounds

Elm Grove Elementary School, Texas

Celebrating the pillars of our educational community, particularly assistant principals, is more than a gesture—it’s a commitment to acknowledging the foundational role they play in our schools. We’re proud of our 15-year partnership with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) through which we partner with these educational professionals to promote healthy children, successful futures and encourage a place where children of all abilities can play, learn and grow together. We’re also excited to continue our sponsorship of its National Outstanding Assistant Principals® (NOAP) Program. This initiative shines a light on the extraordinary efforts of assistant principals across the nation, recognizing their dedication and the positive impacts they have within their school communities. See the Class of 2024 National Outstanding Assistant Principals.

Celebrating the 2024 National Outstanding Assistant Principals

Our commitment to enhancing the educational environment extends beyond accolades. Understanding the critical importance of play in child development, we also focus on the role of school playgrounds. These spaces are not just areas for recess, they are vital for encouraging physical activity, fostering social skills and enhancing cognitive development. Research underscores the significance of outdoor physical activity, not only for children’s health but also for their academic and social progress. Creating age-appropriate and developmentally suitable playgrounds is pivotal in ensuring that children receive the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity daily, as suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

To support this vision, we work with schools to bring these playground projects to fruition so children can thrive both inside and outside the classroom. For more detailed insights on planning and implementing school playgrounds, go here. Then contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on designs for your upcoming playground projects today.

The advantages of including playground spinners in your play space design

Playground spinners are a remarkable enhancement to any outdoor recreational area. They offer a multitude of benefits for children across all age groups. The key benefits of integrating playground spinners into your play space include the following:

  • Boosts balance and coordination skills: Playground spinners present an exceptional opportunity for children to enhance their balance and coordination skills. The act of spinning requires children to maintain their center of gravity and modify their body movements, developing their motor skills and body control.
  • Encourages social interaction and teamwork: Many spinners on the playground are designed to accommodate multiple children simultaneously to promote social interaction and teamwork. This encourages essential social skills such as collaboration, sharing and turn-taking.
  • Offers sensory stimulation and vestibular development: Spinners provide a thrilling sensory experience. The spinning motion stimulates kids’ vestibular systems, which aids in balance, spatial orientation and sensory processing. This sensory stimulation contributes to a child’s overall sensory integration.

Browse our selection today and offer children the opportunity to enjoy the many benefits of playground spinners.

Choosing the ideal playground spinner

Selecting the right spinners for your play environment demands thoughtful consideration of the needs of your children and their safety. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:

  • Age Appropriateness and Safety Guidelines: First, factor in the age range of the children who will be using the spinner. Playground spinners are typically designed with specific age groups in mind, so it’s crucial to choose one that suits your user’s ages. Furthermore, adhere to the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure safe usage of the spinner.
  • Space Requirements and Installation Options: Before choosing a playground spinner, work with your playground designer to assess the available space in your playground. They will help ensure there is enough room for children to use the spinners safely. Additionally, consider the installation options. Some spinners require concrete footings, while others can be surface-mounted, which may offer flexibility in placement.
  • Explore Various Spinner Designs and Features: Playground spinners come in a variety of designs and offer different features to enhance the play experience. Spend time exploring the options available to find one that suits your community’s needs. Consider features like transfer points, high-backed seats and speed limiters to ensure an inclusive play experience for individuals of all abilities.

We offer a broad range of playground spinners that prioritize safety, inclusivity and fun. Our spinners are engineered to meet the highest safety standards and deliver endless entertainment for children of all abilities.

Establishing safe spinning environments

Safety should always be paramount when it comes to playground design. Creating a safe play environment involves several key steps to ensure children can enjoy hours of fun on playground spinners and all the other play components.

First and foremost, it is essential to ensure proper surfacing and impact attenuation around all play equipment. For spinners in particular, the area surrounding the component should have a suitable surface to absorb impact and minimize injuries in case of falls. Regularly inspect the surfacing to ensure it remains in good condition and promptly address any issues.

In addition to surfacing, regular inspection and maintenance of spinning play equipment is critical. This includes checking for any signs of wear, loose bolts or broken components. Regular maintenance helps identify potential hazards and ensures playground spinners remain in optimal working condition.

Finally, educating children on safe play practices is crucial. Teach them to use spinners responsibly like sitting or kneeling instead of standing when appropriate, and not overcrowding the equipment. Encourage children to take turns and be aware of their surroundings. By instilling these safe play practices, you can help all users at the playground prevent accidents.

Learn more about the benefits of playground spinners, and contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on a play space design that incorporates our high-quality, safe and inclusive spinners.

Soar into fun with Volo™: Elevating play with imagination and adventure

Volo™

We’re excited to introduce Volo™, the latest in the Smart Play® collection. Volo marks a new era of play that melds adventure, imagination and inclusivity for children aged 5 to 12. These innovative playgrounds are designed to encourage limitless adventure and imaginative exploration in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Volo reimagines the playground experience. There’s an option for integrated shade. Plus, the design of the play-packed structure invites children of all abilities to discover and tailor their unique play styles. These innovative playgrounds balance high-energy fun with calm exploration, making it a perfect fit for parks, schools and neighborhood play areas.

At the core of Volo’s design is the patent-pending LSI Flexx™. Our revolutionary steel-reinforced cable netting serves as a central hub creating a new model for playground access and inclusion. This innovation connects the inner ring of Volo, offering children a spectrum of play sensations. Kids can find tranquility in lounging or exhilaration in bouncing and climbing. Best of all, Volo promotes a seamless transition across activities for endless engagement and discovery.

With 20 interconnected activities, Volo maximizes play value without compromising space. Elements like slack lines, bridges and hangout spots activate every corner of the play area. We offer a wide variety of carefully selected color palettes for Volo, allowing customers to select one so their playground complements the surrounding environment. Or customers can choose colors that reflect their unique vision.

Experience Volo, and see how this playground design elevates imagination, inclusivity and adventure at playlsi.com/volo. Then contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on your Volo playground project today.

Exploring the future of play: Our exciting 2024 catalogs

At Landscape Structures, our commitment to play is not just a profession… it’s a passion. We understand that play is more than just fun—it’s an essential part of growth, learning and community. As we step into 2024, we’re thrilled to unveil our latest offerings that embody this spirit. Check out our 2024 playground equipment catalogs, where innovation meets imagination, and every design is a doorway to adventure.

Our 2024 Playground Equipment Catalog: A world of play awaits

2024 Playground Equipment Catalog | Landscape Structures

Imagine a playground that not only captivates children’s imaginations but also nurtures their growth. That’s the vision behind our 2024 Playground Equipment Catalog. Packed with groundbreaking innovations like Volo™ and eye-catching designs, our catalog is a treasure trove for anyone looking to create or enhance a play environment.

From freestanding play components that challenge and delight, to outdoor fitness equipment that brings communities together, we’ve thought of everything. See our digital catalog for a burst of inspiration for your next playground project, and don’t forget to request a physical copy to keep the ideas flowing!

SkyWays® Shade Products: Your oasis of comfort

2024 SkyWays® Commercial Shade Products

Sunshine and play go hand in hand, but comfort is key. That’s where our SkyWays® Shade Products come in. Our 2024 catalog showcases a wide range of stylish, effective shade systems that are perfect for transforming any playstructure, splash pad or activity area into a cool, welcoming oasis.

Whether you’re envisioning a modest canopy or an expansive shelter, our catalog presents a variety of options to suit your needs. Browse our virtual catalog to explore the possibilities, and request a copy to start planning your shade projects with confidence.

Aquatix®: Splash into imagination

2024 Aquatix® Splash Play Catalog

Water play is an exhilarating way for children to explore, create and learn. Our Aquatix® splash play line does just that by blending water and imagination to create unforgettable experiences. The 2024 Aquatix catalog is a splash of inspiration featuring products that promise thrilling water adventures and imaginative play.

Explore our digital catalog to discover the endless possibilities for your water play destination. Whether you’re planning a new splash pad or revitalizing an existing space, our catalog is your first step towards a splashtastic project. Request your copy today and let the waves of creativity take you on an unforgettable journey.

Building better play for all

We don’t just create play environments, we craft spaces where memories are made, skills are developed and communities come together. Our 2024 catalogs are more than just collections of products—they are invitations to join us in a world where play is a path to a brighter, happier future.

Let’s build this world together—one playground, one splash pad and one shade structure at a time. Welcome to our world of play, where every day is an opportunity to make a difference.

Ready to start your journey? Contact your local consultant and let the adventure begin!

Partnering to develop the most innovative playground designs

2024 PLAY Book

Well-designed play brings everyone together. It’s why landscape architects and playground designers are constantly creating wildly original and wondrous kid-centric worlds. Like incorporating moments of landscape play that provide multiple options for a child’s next move, a key strategy for adding play value. Or featuring innovative playground designs that help play spaces blend into—or stand out from—their surroundings.

Thoughtful and imaginative design has always been central to how we work. Creativity is our playground, and getting to explore ideas that boost the wow factor and inspire kids, well that’s how we play. View the virtual publication and request a copy of the 2024 PLAY Book.

To us, innovative playground designs can only function in service to play. It’s a perspective that continues to influence our entire industry. And it’s why we are recognized for building the best playgrounds in the world. And why we appreciate partnering with landscape architects and communities to keep stretching design, and play. Contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on your next playground design, and view all of the unique designs of the 2024 PLAY Book in the video below.

The magic of play

At Landscape Structures, we see connections made every day. Everywhere. This is the beauty of play. An extraordinary opportunity for interaction and imagination. Coordination and cooperation. Freedom and fun. Play lets us connect to who we are and see our wonder amplified in the connections we make. That’s why, in everything we do, we celebrate the beauty of play.

We are proud to lead the conversation about the power of play with our videos. Watch the trilogy of Shaped by Play below.

We Come Back to Play
Play Will Always Shape Us
For a Better Tomorrow, We Play Today

The beauty of play is that it’s not just play at all. It’s magic. An opportunity to make connections. Use our social media toolkit to share your story of how play has helped you make connections throughout your life.

Most importantly, share the magic of play with your community by contacting your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to get started on your upcoming playground designs today.

The contemporary new anywhere playsystem

Forma™ brings a contemporary vibe to any play environment. With its architectural influences, endless color possibilities and open sightlines, Forma creates the perfect complement to any play setting. The Forma playsystem designs fit into any environment whether you’re looking for a nature-inspired style or something more modern. Kids will love the dynamic, challenging and inclusive play opportunities provided by the sensory-rich mix of materials found in Forma playsystem designs. Experience Forma here.

Forma Playsystem Slides

Forma playsystem designs: Alpine Slide with children playing

Forma Alpine® Slide – Ages 5 to 12. An easy-to-traverse belting ramp allows all users to reach the slide and swoop back to the ground along the slide’s banking curve.

Forma SlideWinder2® Slide – Ages 5 to 12. After reaching the Forma SlideWinder2 Slide via the belting ramp, riders can whoosh and curve back to the ground.

Forma Slidewinder2

Forma Climbers

Forma Multi-Climber with children playing

Fortress™ Multi-Climber – Ages 5 to 12. With climbing challenges of varying difficulty, the asymmetrical shapes, angles and mix of materials create a unique play experience.

Folio™ Balance Climber – Ages 5 to 12. Deliver three unique experiences for children of all abilities with the slack line, cable-wrapped balance beam and wobbly steps.

Folio Balance Climber with children playing
Forma Forge Climber with children playing

Forge™ Climber – Ages 5 to 12. The Forge Climber includes a large cable climber and two unique panels with mirror cutouts for sensory play.

Footprint™ Steppers – Ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12. Add Footprint Steppers to your Forma play area for more climbing activity or to play-functionally link different play events.

Forma Footprint Steppers of multiple sizes with boy climbing on them

Footprint Balance Beam – Ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12. Challenge kids to improve their balance and agility while they traverse the length of the Footprint Balance Beam.

Foxtrot™ Multi-Climber – Ages 2 to 5. Stepping pods, a side-to-side climber, bouncy bridge, and shape sliders deliver active and sensory fun for many kids at once.

Forma Foxtrot Multi-Climber for 2-5 with girl playing
Forma Giggle Jiggler with two children playing on playground

Forma Giggle Jiggler® Climber – Ages 2 to 5. Kids will love to balance and shimmy on the Forma Giggle Jiggler. Plus, a floating panel and stepper deliver extra sensory and active play.

Sensory Fun

Focal™ Sensory Wall – Ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12. Play on both sides deliver opportunities for walk-up or roll-up access so everyone can participate in the fun.

Forma Sensory Wall with adults and child playing
Forma Fox Den Hangouts with children playing

Fox Den™ Hangouts – Ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12. Offer kids an escape from the hustle and bustle of the playground with seats for one or many.

Motion & More Fun

Forma Sol™ Spinner – Ages 5 to 12. Deliver spinning motion kids need for healthy growth and development, plus more sensory fun with the Rain Sound Wheel Panel.

Child's feet standing on Forma Wobble Bouncer

Footprint Wobble Stepper – Ages 5 to 12. The Footprint Wobble Bouncer maintains the aesthetic of Forma, while providing wiggly, bouncy fun for one or more kids.

Forma Swing Frame – ages 2 to 5, 5 to 12. The angular design of the Forma Swing Frame fits a Forma playground design or adds interest to any play setting.

Forma Swing Frame with adults pushing children on swings

Forma Playsystem Designs

With its architectural influences, endless color possibilities and open sightlines, Forma creates the perfect complement to any play setting. See some of the suggested color palettes below, and go to playlsi.com/forma to explore more.

The beauty of play is that it’s not just play at all. It’s magic. An opportunity to make connections. Share that beauty of play with your community. Contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant to start on your Forma playground designs today.

Play Connects Us

Connections. Our lives are built around them. At Landscape Structures, we see it every day. Everywhere. This is the beauty of play. An extraordinary opportunity for interaction and imagination. Coordination and cooperation. Freedom and fun. Play connects us to who we are and see our wonder amplified in the connections we make. That’s why, in everything we do, we celebrate the beauty of play.

Play Connects Us - Landscape Structures Playground Catalog

You’ll find everything you need to complete your play environment in our 2023 Playground Equipment Catalog – Play Connects Us. From new products to featured designs, individual components and outdoor fitness equipment, we’ll ensure your play space is everything you imagine and more. Browse our digital catalog, then request a copy to find inspiration for your upcoming playground projects.

Make a true impact with a fully integrated shade system for your playstructure, splash pad or any activity area. From small to big shade, decorative to themed shade, we have flexible and stylish options for everywhere people like to gather. Browse the SkyWays® Shade Products virtual catalog, then contact us and start on a new shade project.

Our splashtastic products engage kids’ imaginations, encourage exploration and deliver exhilarating new experiences with water to people of all abilities and on splash pads of all sizes. Discover how Aquatix® water-based activities can help you create a signature destination. Browse our digital catalog, then request a copy and start on your splash pad projects.

The best of 2022

2022 has been an amazing year… filled with great people, designs and products. See the best of 2022 Landscape Structures in the form of our most-read blog posts.

1. Congratulations to Penchura, our 2021 Rep of the Year
Penchura, our playground consultant covering Michigan and Ohio, was chosen as Landscape Structures’ 2021 Rep Organization of the Year.

Best of 2022 Landscape Structures

2. All Together: Design Matters. Play Matters More
We’ll collaborate with you to create a well-designed playground that brings everyone together. Find inspiration in our 2023 PLAY Book.

3. A cost-effective, simple approach to building community splash pads
Our AquaSmart™ Packages are self-contained splash pads that are powered by HydroLogix®, which eliminates the need for costly electrical installation and allows you to install one just about anywhere.

Highland Ridge Park in Delano, Minnesota

4. Delivering adventure with playground towers
The best way to create adventure-filled play experiences for kids of all ages and abilities is to look for playground designs that encourage the progression of the play experience.

5. Welcoming and supporting all with Universal Design
Our design philosophy at Landscape Structures is heavily influenced by the tenets of Universal Design, a theory of design that strives to make environments more usable, safer and healthier for all.

Thank you for tuning in to Together We Play in 2022. We’re looking forward to an exciting year of play; tell us below what you’d like to see more of in 2023 and we’ll do our best to share it here.

Celebrating the playful season

Collaborating with you this year has been a joy and a privilege. We are inspired by the work you’re doing to bring amazing play spaces to communities around the world. Thank you for your continued support. The work we’re doing together is helping bring together children of all ages, abilities and backgrounds for play.

Wishing you and yours the happiest of holidays from all of us at Landscape Structures, Aquatix and SkyWays.