Last Updated on December, 2024
When running a childcare centre, it’s essential to create a fun and accessible play area while minimising the risk of injuries.
Artificial grass offers a long-lasting and practical solution to child-proof your playground. Its durability and low maintenance make it a popular alternative to natural grass.
This article will explore the many benefits of using synthetic turf for childcare centres. Let’s dive in!
Quick Summary
- Synthetic turf offers a soft, safe play surface with shock-absorbing qualities, making it safer for children, including those with allergies or disabilities.
- Artificial grass withstands heavy use and adverse weather conditions, ensuring play areas remain accessible and safe without becoming muddy or slippery.
- Synthetic turf requires minimal maintenance, reducing water, mowing, and chemical needs, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for childcare centers.
Benefits of Using Synthetic Turf for Childcare Centres
There are many advantages to using synthetic grass for your childcare centre. Let’s have a look.
Enhanced Safety
Safety is the most essential consideration in a children’s play area, and artificial grass lets you create a safe surface for kids to play on.
One of the biggest worries for parents and caretakers is kids falling and getting hurt. Artificial turf uses soft fall technology to absorb shock when children fall from play equipment, alleviating those concerns.
Unlike natural grass, artificial turf doesn’t contain pollen or allergens, making it non-toxic and safe for kids with allergies or hay fever.
Durability
Synthetic grass can withstand heavy use for long periods. It is made of extremely durable fibres and granular materials, which means the surface retains its cushioning properties and does not deteriorate easily.
These attributes make artificial turf ideal for childcare centres, whose play areas regularly experience heavy foot traffic.
Weather Resistance
Weather is a significant concern for outdoor play areas. Heavy rainfall can make natural grass muddy and slippery, leading to playground injuries.
In contrast, synthetic grass works well under adverse weather conditions and provides excellent drainage.
You won’t have to halt outdoor activities after rainy weather or worry about kids slipping on the turf.
Aesthetic Appeal
Some people may be hesitant to install synthetic grass for aesthetic reasons. However, fake grass allows for greater customisation, making it ideal for children’s play areas.
Artificial grass comes in various colours and gives your childcare centre a lush appearance. You can also add custom designs, such as logos.
A vibrant environment will stimulate children’s senses and encourage them to participate in outdoor activities.
Low Maintenance
Another advantage of artificial grass is that it requires minimal maintenance.
Natural grass needs frequent watering, mowing, and fertilising. As such, it is expensive to maintain safety and aesthetics.
Conversely, an artificial grass surface is easy to maintain. Hosing the turf once a month will keep it soft year-round. You can also remove stains easily by running a stiff brush over the surface.
Environmentally Friendly
Synthetic turf is better for the environment than natural grass. Playgrounds that use it require less water to keep the grass healthy year-round.
Their minimal maintenance and mowing also reduce carbon emissions.
Moreover, they don’t need chemicals or pesticides for upkeep, making them a safe, non-toxic option for children’s playgrounds.
Suitable for All Children
Your childcare centre should be an inclusive environment accessible to all children. Artificial grass provides soft, level surfaces, creating safe play areas for kids with disabilities.
Things to Consider When Buying Artificial Grass for Childcare Centres
There are a few things to consider when buying artificial turf for child care centres. Here are some of them.
Material: Artificial grass is typically made from nylon, polyethylene, or polypropylene. Polypropylene is the most cost-effective, though not as durable, as polyethylene.
The latter is also popular for school and home playgrounds, as it provides better aesthetics. Nylon is generally considered the sturdiest yarn but is mainly used to replicate the look of natural turf.
Weight and density: Synthetic turf with higher density is more durable but expensive. This also applies to weight, as the heavier the turf per square unit, the more durable it is.
Colour: Bright colours are generally the best choice when laying artificial turf for playgrounds. They will make your playground more vibrant and stimulate outdoor activity in children.
Installation: Proper installation is essential when laying synthetic turf for playgrounds. Poor layering can cause drainage issues, making the surface slippery after bad weather.
The soft turf will also come loose and deteriorate faster, requiring you to replace it prematurely.
Price and warranty: If cost savings are a priority, you may opt for a cheaper material like polypropylene. However, this typically reduces turf quality and durability.
As this is a long-term investment, ensure the artificial turf you select has a reasonable warranty.
Relevant guides:
Conclusion
Artificial grass is an excellent option for childcare centres due to its long lifespan and easy maintenance. When installed right, it creates a vibrant haven that encourages safe play and bonding.
There are a few things to consider when selecting artificial turf, but you can use our guidelines to make an informed decision.
