AAA State of Play Blog: September 2013

Thursday, September 26, 2013

What is Poured in Place Surfacing?

Poured in place rubber is a seamless surface that is poured in two layers to create a safe playground surface. The bottom layer is a cushion layer and is made of cushion materials; either buffings or chunk material. The cushion material is chosen specifically for the size and cut of the area. It is put in place at specific depths for proper fall height protection and bonded together with a predetermined urethane ratio. This layer is allowed to cure before installing the wear course.

The top layer is called a "wear course" and is typically 3/8" thick and comprised of either EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), a type of synthetic rubber, or TPV (thermoplastic vulcanized), which boasts superior color and longevity. The wear course is the layer that is seen.

Poured in place surfacing with a fun design

There are a few different options of poured in place rubber. You can determine the right one for your job based on fall height requirement, color options, UV stability needed, high or low traffic areas, and overall durability. Our representatives are very knowledgeable and can help you determine the right type of poured in place rubber for your project.

There are many benefits of using poured in place rubber. It is a soft, yet durable, surface that will protect children while they play. It can be used both indoors and outdoors. There is a wide color variety with poured in place rubber. One of the coolest things about this surfacing is that you can create designs with it. Pathways can be laid in to guide children around the playground. Shapes, logos, designs, and other graphics can be put into the surfacing encouraging learning, games, and imagination. Sound can even be implemented into the surfacing adding an element of discovery and surprise.

Below is a video showing how the surfacing is done!

Playgrounds

Swing Sets and Slides

Structures and Furniture

Commercial Play Equipment

Monday, September 23, 2013

Keeping Physical Activity Fun

With all of the technology that is on the market, it can be hard to get children away from the television and outside to play. Children often view physical activity as work. Even for adults the idea of exercising sometimes does not seem appealing. That makes it even harder for kids to be active when we aren't always their best role models.

There are many ways to keep physical activity fun! In a recent article from the Reynoldsburg News, a paraprofessional from Slate Ridge Elementary School, Vincent Van Slyke, provides a more structured recess environment. These recesses include structured games of kickball, soccer, hopscotch, and more! Van Slyke does not require children to participate, but encourages them. He even plays along with the kids! The school is seeing more and more kids encouraging their friends to join Van Slyke's games, and even starting games of their own.

Van Slyke and other members of the Reynoldsburg Schools community have noticed that children are more likely to play when adults are playing along, rather than just supervising.

Other ways to keep physical activity fun can be found in this article on our website. Not only will you find tips on keeping activity fun, but you will find benefits of physical activity as well.

Playgrounds

Swing Sets and Slides

Structures and Furniture

Commercial Play Equipment

Thursday, September 12, 2013

New Category!

You may have noticed a few changes to our website. We have been working hard to redesign a few things to make your experience even better. Another new change, and one of my favorites, is the addition of the Playground Sale category. This category features products that are 50% off! Every structure in this category is brand new and is part of our Ultimate Play Program. Be sure to get these structures soon. They are only available for a limited time!

Lil' Sprout Play System

Below are a just a few of the new designs we are proud to feature.

Candies Crush Play System