Places to Play

Thinking of building a play area where the kids can run, swing, slide, climb, hang, hide and jump? Get a head start with these 15 ideas designed to inspire.

Sunshine Theatre(12 of 14)

For the young thespians in the family what's better than an outdoor stage of their own, complete with ticket window and a "Now Playing" chalkboard?

Backstage there is plenty of room to store costumes and hats on built-in pegs and pocket shelves, which are surrounded by a decorative railing. The theatre is brightly painted to mirror the excitement of opening night.

Play Like a Kid, Plan Like a Parent
COLOR AND CREATIVITY: The location of the play area will help determine the colors and designs on the structure. Do you want it to blend in with the shrubbery and terrain? Or do you want to jazz it up with bright colors and whimsical designs?

To begin, think about how long the structure will remain in the yard. Is it just for when the kids are small, or will it be here for many, many years?

You may also consider the possibility that today's playhouse could be converted into tomorrow's garden shed.

Next Photo: Tree Perch