Why is the Importance of Physical Activity for Kids Undeniable?
In today’s screen-dominated world, the importance of physical activity for kids cannot be overstated. Active play goes beyond just keeping children healthy—it supports their emotional, social, and cognitive growth, shaping well-rounded individuals. From playing outdoors to engaging with fun equipment like trampolines and climbing frames, staying active is essential for every child.
Benefits of Physical Activity for Kids
1. Boosts Physical Health Physical activity builds strong bones and muscles, enhances cardiovascular health, and reduces the risk of chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes. Encourage your child to try activities such as jumping on a trampoline, climbing, or running outdoors to keep their body agile and strong.
2. Improves Mental Wellbeing Exercise releases endorphins that improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote better sleep. Active kids often experience higher energy levels and a more positive outlook on life. Explore our range of playsets that inspire joyful movement.
3. Enhances Social Skills Activities like team sports or group play can teach children communication, teamwork, and leadership. Even unstructured play on a climbing frame allows kids to practice problem-solving and build friendships.
4. Supports Cognitive Development Research shows that regular physical activity boosts brain health, leading to improved focus, memory, and creativity. Simple activities like scootering or swinging can foster these skills while keeping kids engaged.
How to Promote the Importance of Physical Activity for Kids
Incorporate Fun: Choose activities your kids enjoy, such as trampolining, cycling, or climbing. Our Plum Play trampolines are perfect for hours of energetic fun.
Be a Role Model: Show your child the value of physical activity by staying active yourself. Whether it’s a family walk or a game of backyard cricket, make exercise a shared experience.
Create a Play-Friendly Environment: Equip your outdoor space with exciting play equipment that encourages movement. Consider adding a swing set or a water play table for variety.
Why Choose Plum for Active Play?
At Plum, we specialise in products designed to keep kids moving. Our innovative range includes trampolines, swing sets, climbing frames, and water play options—all crafted to make active play irresistible. Visit our homepage to find the perfect fit for your family.
Final Thoughts on the Importance of Physical Activity for Kids
Encouraging physical activity isn’t just about staying healthy—it’s about preparing kids for a well-rounded, happy life. By prioritising movement, you’re setting your child up for success in every aspect of their development. Explore Plum Play to discover exciting ways to help your child stay active today.
In-Ground Vs Above Ground Trampolines: Which is Best for You?
Introduction to Trampolines: In-Ground vs Above Ground
Trampolines have long been a favorite backyard addition for families, fitness enthusiasts, and even professional athletes. The choice between in-ground vs above ground trampolines can make a significant difference in terms of safety, aesthetics, and functionality. This guide explores the pros, cons, and considerations to help you make the best choice for your needs.
The Basics of In-Ground Trampolines
Installation Process for In-Ground Models
In-ground trampolines require a carefully planned installation. The process involves:
Digging a pit: The trampoline frame sits flush with the ground.
Drainage systems: To prevent water accumulation.
Structural support: Ensures the trampoline remains secure.
While labor-intensive, this approach provides a sleek, modern look.
Maintenance Requirements for In-Ground Trampolines
Maintaining an in-ground trampoline involves:
Checking for soil erosion around the pit.
Cleaning and inspecting the frame for rust or damage.
Ensuring the drainage system is functioning properly.
Regular care helps maintain safety and performance.
Understanding Above Ground Trampolines
Key Features of Above Ground Trampolines
Above ground trampolines are the most common choice due to their affordability and ease of setup. They typically include:
Above ground trampolines require flat ground for stability and should include safety nets to reduce injury risks. Anchoring kits can further enhance safety during use.
Comparative Analysis: In-Ground vs Above Ground Trampolines
Installation Costs and Time Investment
In-Ground: Higher initial cost due to excavation and drainage setup.
Above Ground: Lower upfront cost and quick setup.
Long-Term Durability and Maintenance
While above ground trampolines are easier to replace, in-ground models tend to last longer with proper care.
Safety Differences
In-ground trampolines offer reduced fall risks due to their flush design. However, above ground options are safer for households that require portability or seasonal adjustments.
Aesthetic Appeal
In-ground trampolines blend seamlessly into landscapes, while above ground models can stand out visually.
FAQs About In-Ground Vs Above Ground Trampolines
What is the average lifespan of each type? In-ground trampolines can last 10–15 years, while above ground models typically last 5–10 years.
Can you convert an above ground trampoline to in-ground? Yes, with proper modifications and an excavation setup, above ground trampolines can be installed in-ground.
Which option is safer for children? In-ground trampolines are often safer due to their reduced fall height.
How much space do I need for installation? Allow at least 1-2 metres of clearance around any trampoline for safe usage.
Are in-ground trampolines more durable? They can be more durable if properly installed and maintained.
What is the cost difference between the two types? In-ground trampolines are typically 1.5–2 times more expensive than above ground models.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing between in-ground and above ground trampolines depends on your needs, budget, and preferences. For families seeking a sleek, permanent option, in-ground trampolines are ideal. Above ground models, however, offer flexibility and affordability for a variety of uses.
Trampolines really are a fan favourite for everyone in the family, and really, who could be surprised? They’re an endless source of fun that requires no power, no water, and no effort from the parents once they’re set up. And obviously, the kids just love them. But all of this hinges on one crucial little task just at the start of your trampoline ownership; that is, of course, the set-up.
The importance of correct trampoline setup can’t be understated, as it is the primary thing that ensures safe play all day, every day. In this guide, we’ll be covering some of the key components of the trampoline and providing a general overview of what to do during the setup process. Let’s get into it.
The Parts of a Trampoline
Before you get cracking on building your trampoline, it’s important to have some idea of what components you’ll be dealing with prior to construction. In fact, we’re hoping that this information may even serve as something of a buying guide prior to purchase.
Springs
The springs of a trampoline are the unsung heroes, providing the essential bounce and support for every leap and bound. High-quality springs are crucial for maintaining both the fun factor and safety. They should be robust, rust-resistant, and properly installed to ensure a consistent and safe bouncing experience.
Plum Play’s Springsafe® technology is a prime example, offering an innovative design that enhances safety by keeping the springs external to the jumping area. This not only improves performance but also significantly reduces the risk of spring-related injuries, ensuring a worry-free playtime.
Mat
The trampoline mat is the heart of the bouncing experience. It’s where all the fun happens, so its quality and durability are paramount. Made from strong, UV-resistant fabrics, it should provide a smooth, consistent bounce while ensuring safety. When setting up, ensure the mat is free from tears or weaknesses and is correctly attached to the springs. Regular checks and maintenance are essential to keep it in top condition, ensuring it remains the safe and thrilling centrepiece of your trampoline.
Cover
A trampoline cover is an indispensable accessory for any trampoline owner. Designed to shield your trampoline from the elements, the cover plays a vital role in prolonging the life of your trampoline. It protects the mat, springs, and padding from rain, sun, and debris, keeping them in top condition.
When selecting a cover, ensure it fits snugly and is made of durable, weather-resistant material. Fitting the cover is straightforward; it should securely encompass the entire trampoline, providing a shield against wear and tear caused by harsh weather conditions.
Netting
Safety netting is a critical component of a modern trampoline, acting as a safeguard to prevent falls. This is particularly important for children, as the netting provides an extra layer of protection during play. When choosing netting, look for strong, durable materials that can withstand the impact of jumpers and resist wear over time.
Proper attachment is key – the netting should be securely fastened to the poles and the edge of the trampoline, leaving no gaps. Quality netting not only enhances safety but also gives parents peace of mind, knowing their children can enjoy their bouncing adventures safely.
How to Set Up a Trampoline
Setting up a trampoline can be a straightforward process when you follow these essential steps. Here’s a general guide to help you through each stage, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trampoline experience for everyone.
1. Reviewing the Materials
Before diving into the assembly, it’s crucial to review all the materials and parts provided. Lay out the pieces and cross-check them with the instruction manual to ensure everything is accounted for. This step helps identify any missing or defective components before assembly begins, saving time and ensuring safety. Pay special attention to the springs, mat, frame, and netting, as these are key elements of your trampoline.
2. Assembling the Trampoline Frame
The trampoline frame forms the foundation of your trampoline, so it’s important to assemble it correctly. Start by connecting the pieces of the frame, usually in a circular shape, ensuring each section is tightly and securely fastened. If your trampoline is oval or rectangular, make sure the longer and shorter sides are correctly positioned. The legs should then be attached, providing stable support. Double-check all connections for stability before moving to the next step.
3. Setting up the Mat
Once the frame is in place, the next step is to set up the jumping mat. Begin by attaching the springs to the mat, then carefully connect them to the frame. This can require a bit of strength and patience, as the springs need to be stretched to hook onto the frame. It’s crucial to evenly distribute the springs around the frame to maintain balance and tension across the mat. Ensure that each spring is properly hooked and secure for optimal safety.
4. Putting Together the Enclosure Net
The final step is to install the enclosure net, which is vital for safety. Start by attaching the poles around the trampoline, ensuring they are upright and firmly secured. Then, attach the netting to these poles, following the instructions to ensure it is tight and free of gaps. The net should cover the entire circumference of the trampoline and be secured at the top and bottom, preventing any falls or injuries.
Remember, safety is paramount when setting up a trampoline. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed. Once set up, your trampoline will provide endless hours of fun and exercise. If you have any questions about the content covered in this guide, feel free to contact our team!
Children love imaginative play, and whether indoors or outside, there are countless opportunities to incorporate magical and creative ideas into their playtime. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply looking for ways to engage your little ones, these imaginative play ideas will inspire their creativity and provide hours of entertainment.
1) Pirate Play Adventure
Ahoy, little adventurers! Embark on a thrilling pirate voyage with this
imaginative play idea that will transport your children to the high seas.
Whether it’s a rainy day or a sunny afternoon, this playtime adventure is sure
to ignite their imagination and keep them busy all day long.
To begin, gather some basic materials to create a pirate ship setting. Use
chairs, blankets, and pillows to construct a makeshift ship in your living room
or backyard. Encourage your little ones to dress up as sea-travelling pirates
with pirate hats or bandanas and cardboard swords. Now, it’s time to set sail!
Encourage your kids to create a treasure map by drawing a simple route with landmarks around your home or backyard. You can even hide small treasures or treats along the way for your valiant voyagers to keep the excitement building.
As they navigate the imaginary sea, encourage them to engage in role playing
and storytelling. Let their creativity soar as they encounter storms, sea
monsters, and friendly sea creatures along their journey.
This imaginative play idea not only promotes creativity and storytelling skills but also encourages teamwork and problem-solving as they work together to navigate their pirate adventure. So, set sail with your little pirates and let their imaginations run wild on the high seas!
2) Tea Party Water Play
Make a splash with tea party water play to unleash your little one’s
imagination.
Set up a water activity table with teapots, teacups and teabags. Children can pour the water into the cups and have a pretend tea party. You can enhance the sensory play by adding other elements, such as flower petals, food colouring or bubbles, to the water for a royal sensory tea party like no other.
Sensory play can help your little ones develop their fine and gross motor skills as they hold teacups, pour from teapots and pass plates to their friends as they play.
3) Castle Building Competition
Building blocks are an excellent way to
encourage imaginative play, and a castle-building competition is a perfect imaginative
game for kids.
Select one child to be the judge and divide
the rest into teams. Give each team a set of building blocks and thirty minutes
to make their most imaginative castle design come to life. Encourage children
to work together in groups to create the most impressive castle.
Children can bring their architectural
creations to life and let their imaginations run free with this task by adding
details like moats, drawbridges, and turrets. The sky’s the limit!
Once the time is up, the judge can choose
their favourite castle based on design, features, and fun!
Another way to carry out this building
competition is to replace building blocks with cardboard boxes and other
recyclable materials. With cardboard boxes, there’s even the option to decorate
and paint the castle to add flair to the finished design!
This activity promotes active social play and the development of key skills such as turn-taking, team building and creativity, so everyone’s a winner!
4) Dressing Up Fun
Dressing up is an imaginative way for your little ones to engage in
pretend play and explore different costumes and attire, from dragons to doctors
or superheroes to chefs. The possibilities are endless! You could even incorporate
sensory elements into the fancy dress by adding fabrics with different
textures, such as silk or velvet.
Dress-up play offers a multitude of benefits for children’s development and well-being. It’s not just about putting on costumes and pretending to be someone else; it’s a gateway to imagination and creativity. When children dress up as different characters, they embark on a journey of self-expression, boosting their confidence and nurturing their creativity.
Children develop essential social skills through fancy dress play as they interact with others in character. They learn to cooperate, share, and take turns, fostering positive relationships and empathy. Additionally, dressing up encourages language development and communication skills as children engage in storytelling and role playing, expanding their vocabulary and ability to express themselves.
Overall, it’s a powerful tool for holistic development, allowing children to explore, imagine, and grow.
5) Backyard Banquet
Orders up! A mud pie kitchen is
a great way to incorporate sensory play into imaginative backyard play,
whatever the season.
Plum Discovery Mud Pie Kitchens are perfect for preparing a backyard banquet. The kit includes bowls for foraging, utensils for stirring, and an easy-cleaning painting screen to draw up the menu.
Little ones can mix and mould mud and water to create their own mud pies and pretend to be chefs in a busy kitchen. You can also add some natural ingredients to the mud pies, such as herbs or flowers, to make them more lavish for the special occasion. Children can use their imagination to create their own mud pie recipes and serve them to their guests.
6) Space Explorers
3, 2, 1… Blast off! Take your children on an intergalactic journey with
this imaginative play idea that will transport them to the far reaches of outer
space. Get ready to explore distant planets and experience the wonders of the
cosmos right from the comfort of your own home.
Start by transforming a room into a spaceship. Use blankets, chairs, and
cardboard boxes to create a spacecraft command centre. You could even provide
your little space explorers with astronaut costumes, complete with helmets and
backpacks filled with essentials for their mission.
Set the stage by playing space-themed music and turn off the lights to
create a starry atmosphere. Use glow-in-the-dark stickers or paper cut-outs to
decorate the room with planets and stars.
Next, guide your children through a series of space missions. They can embark on an expedition to Mars, search for new galaxies, or even encounter friendly space creatures. Encourage them to use their imagination to describe what they see and communicate with mission control (you) throughout their space exploration.
To enhance the experience, they could build their own rocket ships using recycled materials; the sky’s the limit!
Imaginative
play is a fantastic way to inspire children’s
creativity and let them use their imagination. From pirate play to backyard
banquets, there are plenty of activities that will ignite your little one’s imagination
and provide hours of entertainment.
These imaginative play ideas for preschoolers and older children are bound to spark imaginations, and they’re also great for developing sensory skills, promoting socialisation, and encouraging role play. So next time you’re planning a party or looking for some play ideas for kids, consider incorporating some of these imaginative play ideas for an unforgettable experience that’s sure to be a winner with the kids.
If you try out any of these ideas, share your adventures with us @PlumPlayAus #lifeatplay
Oceans are an essential part of the Earth’s ecosystem because they provide us with food, oxygen and help to regulate the planet’s climate. So, looking after them is important to protect the marine life that calls oceans home.
When is World Ocean Day Celebrated?
World Ocean Day is celebrated around the globe on 8th June to raise awareness about ocean conservation. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to engage children in ocean-themed play and activities that can ignite their curiosity and love of nature.
Discover some of our favourite ocean play ideas to teach your little ones about marine life, from creating a backyard ocean to jellyfish suncatchers. These activities will make a splash and inspire young minds to protect and cherish our oceans.
1) Create a Backyard Ocean
One way to immerse children in the
world of oceans is by making your own mini ocean in your back backyard.
Set up a shallow pool or wooden sand and water table and fill it with water to represent the vastness of the sea. Add pebbles, seashells, and your child’s favourite sea creature water toys to create a visually appealing underwater scene.
Once your ocean scene is set up, the world is their oyster! Children can use their imagination to play with toy boats, simulate waves, and discover the incredible marine life in their ocean play pool. This hands-on sensory water play allows kids to understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems and learn about different sea creatures that live in the sea.
Creating an ocean sensory pool can be beneficial to your child’s development. The different toys and materials in the sensory pool create tactile sensations and colourful patterns in the water, captivating the curiosity of young children. Engaging in this interactive experience encourages learning through touch, enhances dexterity, and promotes sensory exploration.
2) Eggbox Ocean Craft
Another
ocean-themed play idea is to let children explore their artistic side by making
an eggbox ocean craft and creating their seascape.
You will need:
🌊 Egg cartons
🌊 Paint – blue and green are ideal colours
🌊 Paintbrushes
🌊 Cardboard
🌊 Glue
🌊 Scissors
🌊 Natural materials – shells, pebbles and seaweed work well
Collect empty egg
cartons and help children paint the sections blue to resemble the ocean. Then,
encourage them to create their own underwater scenes using various art supplies
such as cardboard cut into sea shapes, like starfish and natural materials like
shells and seaweed.
Get kids to pop
their ocean creations into the eggbox, which acts as the ocean backdrop to
complete their design.
This craft activity encourages creativity and imagination while fostering discussions about the importance of protecting marine habitats and conserving our oceans.
3) Jellyfish Suncatcher
Jellyfish are mesmerising
creatures that captivate the imagination of children. To celebrate World Ocean
Day, engage kids in creating Jellyfish Suncatchers.
You will need:
🪸 Pencil
🪸 Black cardboard
🪸 Tissues paper in lots of colours
🪸 Glue
🪸 Ribbon
🪸 Scissors
Start by drawing a
Jellyfish body outline on black cardboard paper and cut this out. Also, cut out
the middle of the jellyfish shape; this is where the colourful tissue paper
will go to create the suncatcher.
Time to get
colourful! Kids can get creative here and use their favourite colours in lots
of shapes and sizes to create a vibrant suncatcher pattern. Let kids stick
pieces of coloured tissue paper to the middle of the jellyfish, working from
the edges to the centre.
Then, help them
cut out long, dangling tentacles from colourful ribbons or attach these
tentacles to the bottom of the jellyfish and secure them with glue.
Hang the finished suncatchers near windows, allowing the sunlight to shine through and illuminate the shimmering colours. As children admire their creations, it’s an excellent opportunity to start a discussion with your little one about the significance of jellyfish to ocean life and the importance of looking after all the creatures in the ocean.
4) Fishing for Numbers
Fishing for
Numbers is a playful way to introduce young children to numbers while enjoying
the ocean theme.
Create fish-shaped
cut-outs from colourful cardboard and write numbers on each fish. Attach a paper
clip to each fish.
Make a fishing rod
using a stick, string, and a magnet tied to the end of the line.
Spread the fish cut-outs
on the floor and have the children take turns fishing for numbers.
As they catch a
fish, ask them to identify the number and count aloud.
This activity enhances numeracy skills and hand-eye coordination. This activity is also versatile – on the other side of the fish, you can write letters and get children to fish for the letters of their name or to spell ocean-related words. This can also help children develop their letter recognition, reading and literacy skills.
World Ocean Day
provides the opportunity to talk with your little one about the importance of
caring for the world and looking after oceans and the sea creatures that live
in them. We hope these play suggestions have given you some fun ideas on
engaging your children in ocean-themed play, sparking their imaginations and making
a splash this World Ocean Day.
If you try out any of these ideas, share your adventures with us @PlumPlayAus #lifeatplay
As nature begins to wind down and the days become crisp and bright, it’s the ideal time to get out and about. There are lots of activities that you can do to keep your kids busy as the weather cools down and enjoy the changing seasons together outdoors. Read on to hear some of our favourites…
1. Winter Walk
A simple outdoor activity to keep the kids busy during the colder months is to go on a Winter walk.
Winter is the perfect time to whack out those Wellington boots,
pop them on and go for a walk as a family. Jump in the puddles, splash in the
mud or search for vibrant tree leaves. It’s all part of the fun of a winter
walk!
Why not see who can find the most leaves, see how many birds you can spot or count the puddles as you go to immerse yourself and your little ones in the beauty of the season?
2. Scavenger Hunt
What will you find? Take your Winter exploration a step
further by going on a scavenger hunt. This is an excellent activity for
children of all ages to get involved in. You can keep this activity simple by
looking out for the signs of Winter and scavenging for seasonal treasures.
Why not make a list of things to look out for:
🪵 Twigs
🪶 Feathers
🍁 Red leaves
🍂 Yellow leaves
🍃 Green leaves
🌰 Conker
🌼 Flowers
Need a chest to keep your Winter treasure safe? Egg boxes are a great way to look after all your finds. Use the egg box to keep things together as you go. Little ones can even decorate the box with pens and paper or stick some of their treasures to the box itself when they get home.
3. Wild Work of Art
Another great use of your little one’s nature treasures
would be to create a wild work of art.
Use leaves, twigs, feathers and more to make a natural artwork. You can get your little ones to create their artwork straight onto the backyard patio or grass, then take a picture to remember their masterpiece. Or why not use a sheet of paper as the base for their design, so they have something to create and keep?
4. Pooh Sticks
This is a classic outdoor activity, made famous by a certain
bear, and will be a fun way to pass the time together during Winter weekends.
You need two or more players, each with a stick. Find a bridge
that sits over a flow of moving water, like over a stream or river.
Once everyone has chosen their favourite stick, everyone
needs to stand on the bridge.
On your marks, get set, go! Everyone throws their sticks
into the water at the same time.
The stick that floats under the bridge and emerges first on
the other side wins, hooray!
Top Tip: Double-check how the water flows so that your sticks go the right way!
5. Bug Buddy
Insects and bugs like to stay cosy in Winter, living under snuggly
moss or in big hollows in tree bark, so this is the perfect time of year to
make a bug buddy.
Go on a bug hunt around the backyard and look for the marvellous minibeasts hiding out.
When your child finds their bug buddy remind them to be kind
and gentle. To the bugs, your child is a giant. The bugs are minibeasts, after
all! Encourage your child to scoop them up carefully in their hands and place
them down gently once they have finished meeting their bug buddy.
You could even get children to write out the names of the bugs they see, count how many they find or draw their bug buddies too.
6. Bug Hotel
So, you’ve found some bug buddies. What about making a bug
hotel so that they have a cosy place to stay in your backyard this Winter?
This activity is a great way to encourage your kids to help
look after nature and will keep them occupied.
Use those leaves and sticks you collected on your scavenger
hunt to construct a tiny house for the insects that call your backyard home.
When your child is creating their bug hotel, ask them to consider
whether their bug visitors need leaves and whether they like their hotel to be
wet or dry, in the shade or the sun – so it really can be the perfect retreat
for backyard creatures.
Things like cardboard tubes and boxes can help to create ‘rooms’ for minibeast guests in your bug hotel.
7. Conker Painting
Conkers are the glossy brown staples of Autumn and Wintertime.
They are robust and relatively large, meaning they are great
for painting!
This activity can be mindful and an excellent way for your
kids to wind down after a busy Winter day.
Gather some paint and paint brushes, along with your conkers
and get painting.
This is a great activity to do in the backyard. For one, your children can take inspiration from the outdoors around them for their painting-they’ll spot wildlife, flowers, and colours. Painting in the backyard also means no mess indoors, and the rain can wash any spills away afterwards!
8. Make a Mud Masterpiece
For this one, prepare to get messy, but that’s really what
outdoor exploring is all about!
Encourage little ones to grab a big handful of mud and mould it like clay into mud masterpieces. Why not develop mud into a mud creature or perhaps a mud pie?
This is a great idea to encourage children to engage their
senses outdoors. When creating their mud masterpiece, encourage your kids to
fully immerse themselves in the sensory play by asking them questions such as,
what does the mud feel like? What does it sound like when you squish it?
Encourage them to mould it in different ways, such as rolling, squashing, mixing and patting. This will help them create their mud masterpieces and aid the development of fine and gross motor skills.
9. Winter Obstacle Course
This a fun way to encourage
healthy, active play during the cooler months of the year.
Your children can make an outdoor
nature obstacle course for their friends by gathering sticks to jump over or
create hopscotch. Why not collect a big pile of leaves to jump into at the
finish line?
If you have a climbing frame,
why not use this as a challenge within the obstacle course? Kids can climb up
the ladder, swoop down the slide, and go to the finish line!
If your backyard has a small footprint, children can take turns to complete the route and see who can complete it in the fastest time, so everyone safely gets a go with plenty of space.
Wintertime is the perfect time to get outdoors, so pop on a
coat, get the kids together and get out there! We hope these seasonal outdoor
ideas give you lots of inspiration to keep your kids busy this Winter.
If you try out any of these activities for kids, share your adventures with us @PlumPlayAus #lifeatplay
Prepare to get set for even more Plum Play Fun…
There’s lots of fun to be had in Winter, and we hope that you and your little ones enjoy trying out some of these seasonal outdoor ideas. However, if you’re dreaming of sunnier days and even more Plum Play fun, don’t worry as the countdown has begun… You can now pre-order play equipment in time for Spring!
You can enjoy over 15% off on pre-order items, making it the perfect opportunity to get set for an unforgettable season of backyard play.
Spring is in the air, so what better way to celebrate than by giving your Plum Play equipment a fresh look for the start of the season?
Why Should You Do DIY With Your Kids?
DIY allows
children to develop key skills and nurtures their creativity. Painting or digging
enhances their fine and gross motor skills as they learn to grip a paintbrush
or a spade.
Involving the kids in backyard DIY projects will spark their imaginations. So, Spring is the perfect time for families to come together and have fun working on these projects.
Get Ready For Spring!
As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, we want to inspire you to get creative with the kids and explore ways you can revamp, reuse and recycle your play equipment. Whether it’s a wooden sandpit, a cubby house or a trampoline, we have some great tips and tricks to inspire you to refresh your backyard play equipment and make your outdoor area more fun and inviting for your little ones. So, let’s get started!
Revamping
How To Decorate a Wooden Cubby House?
Decorating a cubby house can be a fun backyard play area DIY for children and grown-ups alike. Whether you’re looking to give your child’s cubby house a new look or you just want to add some personal touches, there are endless ways to get creative with decorating…
Cubby House Painting Ideas
One way to
give your wooden cubby house a fresh look is by giving it a coat of paint. You
can choose from a variety of colours to compliment your outdoor space or even
opt for a theme to create a unique play area style. Pastel shades like pastel
pink, mint and pastel blue are popular choices for cubby houses, as they can
add a cheerful splash of colour to your backyard landscape.
To make your cubby house really pop, you could even add some quirky patterns, like polka dots or stripes. To fully embrace the DIY spirit, you could even create a mural on the outside of the cubby house, with a different pattern on each wall or paint a scene from your little one’s favourite storybook.
How to Decorate Inside a Cubby House?
Remember, it’s not all about the look on the outside. The inside of a cubby house can also be decorated to make it a cosy, inviting retreat for your kids. You can add some vibrant cushions, a little table and chairs and some playful wall decorations or plants to create a welcoming space that your kids can’t wait to spend time in. Adding a rug will give the cubby house that next-level warmth and comfort, making it the perfect place for your kids to play or read.
Let your creativity run wild
When it comes to decorating your kids cubby house, the sky’s the limit. You could add some fairy lights for an enchanted touch or even add some window boxes and hanging baskets filled with colourful flowers or herbs to give the cubby house a calming feel and allow it to blend seamlessly into your outdoor space.
How to Decorate a Treehouse?
A treehouse
is a wondrous place for kids to let their imaginations run wild and enjoy
outdoor play. Decorating a treehouse can be a fun opportunity for parents and
kids to connect, spending quality time enhancing the treehouse together. Here
are some innovative ways to decorate your kid’s treehouse in time for Spring.
Use recycled materials – Decorating your treehouse doesn’t need to be expensive. Recycled materials like old cans make great plant pots, and plastic water bottles are ideal for making a cascading water run. To add a dash of colour, your kids can get creative, painting the cans and bottles, so their vibrant artwork can be seen from the treetops.
Add some greenery – Incorporating plants and flowers into your treehouse décor can create a natural and calming space. The Plum Discovery Woodland Treehouse encourages your little ones to tend to the flowers with a built-in potted planter so they can get a head start on sowing their veg patch or cultivating their own herb garden.
Use outdoor lighting – Adding some outdoor lighting to the area around your treehouse can create a magical atmosphere for evening play as dawn turns to dusk. Use string lanterns or solar-powered lights to illuminate the space, making it safe and snug for your little nature nurturers to enjoy active play in their treehouse all year round as the seasons change.
Whether you’re using recycled materials, adding greenery or incorporating outdoor lighting, decorating the treehouse is a creative way to spend time with your little one and make their outdoor play space even more special.
Need a Spare Part for Your Trampoline?
Head over to the Plum Play website to discover our complete catalogue of trampoline spares for our full trampoline range. Simply use the handy spare part checker by typing in your product code to show all the spare parts available for your trampoline. Sprucing up your trampoline has never been so easy!
Top tip: Unsure of your trampoline’s product code – look for the sticker on one of your trampoline’s legs, and you’ll find it there.
Reusing
How to Repurpose Play Sand?
Reusing play sand is a resourceful way to give a new purpose to your children’s outdoor play materials. Here are a couple of easy ways to repurpose your play sand…
Make Textured Paint
Simply mix some sand and paint to create a textured paint effect. This can be a fun way to add a sensory element to play. By creating artwork with this paint, your children can explore the sensation of the rough texture and gritty feeling of the grains of sand in contrast against the smooth paper.
Revitalise Your Compost
Adding play sand to compost can improve its quality. Adding sand to compost improves drainage and aeration, which leads to healthier soil and happier plants – carrots especially love sandy soil as it helps them grow deep into the ground.
Repurposing your play sand is a creative way to give new life to something that may have otherwise gone to waste. So next time you have some leftover sand, don’t throw it away – repurpose it!
Recycling
Plum Play
products are built to last for years to come, but perhaps your kids have
outgrown their sandpit, or you no longer need your trampoline. If so, you can
always recycle your play equipment when it’s no longer needed.
Sandpits also
make the ideal container for a mini veg plot. By removing the sand, replacing
it with soil, and planting some of your kids’ favourite veggies, you have an
instant mini allotment in your backyard.
Encourage your children to embrace their green fingers and plant the seeds together. Looking after their own veg patch will help teach them the importance of nurturing something and caring for the environment.
Wooden Products
All Plum Play outdoor wooden products are made using FSC®-certified wood, so they come from sustainable sources and can be recycled at the end of product life. Even our sandpit liners can be recycled, so the environmental impact is minimal.
Trampolines
100% of the metal used in a Plum trampoline is recycled, so the impact on waste is minimal. To keep this reduce, reuse, recycle circle going, you can recycle the elements of your Plum Play trampoline after use – be sure to check with your local recycling centre to recycle the different elements efficiently.
Chicken Run
Did you know
trampolines can be transformed into the ideal home for chickens?
When you no longer need your trampoline, turn it into the perfect sanctuary for your feathered friends by removing the enclosure and securing chicken wire around the base of the trampoline. The jumping mat becomes the coop roof, and your hens can then live sheltered under the sturdy trampoline base, making it the perfect pen.
Even More Ways to Transform Your Trampoline…
Of course, if you want to reuse the trampoline for yourself, then other options are to transform the base into a robust frame to hang a hammock for backyard dozing or use it as a trellis for plants that love to climb high.
These are just a few ways to inspire you to get your play equipment Spring ready and revamp, reuse and recycle your Plum Play products. So, if you give your play equipment a new lease of life, then be sure to let us know over@PlumPlayAus#LifeAtPlay. We’d love to see your revamp, reuse and recycling innovations.
Happiness is about experiencing positive feelings such as contentment and joy. International Day of Happiness is a day that encourages people to focus on what truly matters in life, and that is happiness. This year it is on Monday, 20th March 2023. While adding some happiness to every day is important, the International Day of Happiness is an excellent opportunity to celebrate happiness with your family. Here are some fun activities you can try out to celebrate the International Day of Happiness with your kids…
Activities for Kids to Spread Joy on the International Day of Happiness
1) Share Your Happiness with Each Other
One of the best ways to celebrate the International Day of Happiness with your family is by sharing your happiness with each other. Take some time to sit down with your family and ask each other what makes you happy. Share your happy moments and memories, and remember all the fun activities you have done as a family. This is a great way to create a positive and happy atmosphere in your home.
2) Bake Some Treats Together
Baking is a fun and creative way to celebrate the International Day of Happiness with your family. Not only is baking a fun activity, but you also enjoy the delicious treats you make together. You could bake some gingerbread biscuits together and give them yummy happy faces by creating eyes and a smiley mouth out of fruit.
3) Go Outside and Play
Spending time outdoors is a superb way to promote happiness. Spend some time in the backyard together. You can jump on the trampoline, play hide and seek around the climbing frame, go on a backyard scavenger hunt, or play any other games your family enjoys. Spending time outside in nature can boost your mood and help you feel happier.
4) Do Some Arts and Crafts
You
can draw, paint, or make crafts together. Creating art together is a great way
to celebrate the International Day of Happiness. A really simple craft to try
is creating happy potato prints. You’ll only need a few things: paint, paper
and potatoes.
You
will need the following:
📜 Paper
🎨 Paint – bright colours to spark happiness, like orange, yellow and pink work well
🥔 Potatoes – big baking potatoes work well
Instructions
Cut
a smiley shape into your potato or try other shapes, like stars using a biscuit
cutter to indent the outline and then finish cutting with a knife.
Let
your kids loose on the paint and stamp the potatoes into the paint and then
onto the paper.
Leave
the creations to try.
Display
where all the family can see to give you a little happiness every day.
This is a great way to express your creativity and spend quality time together as a family.
5) Have a Picnic
Having a picnic is a fun and easy way to celebrate the International Day of Happiness. Pack some sandwiches, fruit, and drinks (and don’t forget those biscuits you made earlier) and head outdoors together. This is a great way to enjoy nature and spend quality time together as a family.
6) Make the Wildlife Happy
There’s a whole host of activities you can encourage your kids to do to make the animals and insects in your backyard happy; it’s not just about happy humans! Why not get your kids to build a bug hotel to keep backyard minibeasts content and cosy or scatter some wildflower seeds so that you will have a host of happy bees in your backyard in the summertime?
Doing activities like this is a great way to get your children to spend time in nature and get involved in the outdoors. It also teaches them how to look after wildlife and make the planet happy.
7) Give Back to Your Community
Giving back to your community is a compassionate way to celebrate the International Day of Happiness. You could donate something to a local food bank or help at a community event. This is a great way to teach your children about the importance of giving back and positively impacting the world.
What is Happening Around the World on the International Day of Happiness?
The
International Day of Happiness is celebrated around the world; families share
online what makes them happy and how they celebrate the day with loved ones.
Schools
sometimes have special events like dressing in clothes that make you happy or a
happiness post box where children can post compliment cards to their friends.
Local community hubs might host events like bake sales or pop-up craft tents to spread happiness and joy in the local community, so keep a lookout in your local area.
It’s time to share happiness! What are you doing to spread more happiness? Don’t forget to share your ideas with us @plumplayaus#LifeAtPlay.
As we celebrate our 35th year of bringing families together through healthy active play and creating childhoods filled with fun memories that will last a lifetime, we’re taking a look back at our beginnings and what makes Plum Play so unique…
Our Story
Becoming the active play specialists
After raising three children themselves while starting Plum® 35 years ago, founders Jonathan and Diane Schaffer know how important it is to give your little ones the freedom to play in a stimulating outdoor space at home.
When Paul was young, he began working for his family’s business whilst attending school. He was involved in various tasks, such as customer service, organising spare parts, and packing brochures. After Studying in Sydney, Australia, he began his own career. However, Paul had ambitions to return to Plum and in 2015, he returned and since 2019, has been managing the company, heading up the helm as our top play enthusiast! Through his help, the company has grown to become a successful global brand.
This little boy is now our Managing Director, Paul Schaffer.
What Makes Plum Play Different?
Plum Play is no average toy company. We’re a sustainable toy company who are passionate about making play as fun and safe as possible. From ensuring our products are kind to the planet, to creating imaginative toys kids will love for years to come. Read on to learn more about our values and what makes us so special…
35 Years of Family First Values
We have 35 years of experience and understand the importance of putting families first. So, we ensure that family first values are in everything we do. We’re committed to creating play opportunities for families to spend quality time together by creating play equipment that is high-quality, affordable and enjoyed by families around the globe.
Inspiring Young Minds
We have a passion for inspiring young minds by:
🌟Letting kids rediscover the magical world around them by developing play equipment, like our Forest School-inspired Plum Discovery® collection, which combines the delights of nature, play and learning.
👏Building kids’ self-confidence and physical skills through healthy active play.
🔎Nurturing curiosity and creativity by developing toys which engage the senses, encourage messy play and appeal to children’s naturally inquisitive side, so they build their interests.
🤸Creating a world that is rich in play possibilities with a variety of outdoor toys from My First to Junior and beyond, there’s a Plum Play possibility for every child (and adult too).
🤾Giving children the freedom of play through our range of innovative outdoor toys, there’s the ultimate freedom to spark little ones’ imaginations through a variety of play.
‘Young minds work in mysterious but wonderful ways. At Plum Play, we’re all about creating the tools to let their imaginations run wild.’ – Founders Jonathan and Diane Schaffer.
Plum Play Looking After the Planet
At Plum Play we have a sustainable play vision. We are committed to being kind and friendly to the planet because we want to ensure the earth is a better place for our children to enjoy as they grow up.
Our commitment to being kind to the environment goes back to our beginnings 35 years ago. We made sure that our wood was of the highest quality and produced from sustainable forestry operations to create attainable sustainable wooden toys.
All our outdoor toys are sustainably sourced, planet friendly toys, as they are made from FSC®-certified wood, which means that we support the responsible management of the world’s forests. We are proud to have been FSC®-certified since FSC® was begun in 1994.
Ensuring a Safe Playtime for All
We have a safety conscious design process, and each of our products is tested to the highest safety standards, and for that all important fun factor!
Springsafe® Trampolines
springs and frame of the trampoline. This ensures that Plum Springsafe Trampolines are the smartest and safest choice for family fun and healthy active play.
Outdoor Wooden Toys
All our outdoor wooden play equipment is treated with a non-toxic formula to ensure these products are as strong and as safe as possible, prolonging the products’ life and ensuring a safe playtime for all.
Built to Last
We know that healthy active play is important for children as they grow. So that’s why we make premium play equipment that is built to last for years to come.
Since durable play equipment should last for years, all our products come with warranty periods, which ensures your playtime is protected for longer, and you can have peace of mind that the play equipment is safe, high-quality and built to last.
At Plum Play, we believe in fun for the whole family. The joy of play brings families together and creates memories that will last for a lifetime. Share your Plum Play memories with us @plumplayaus.
17th February 2023 marks Random Acts of Kindness
Day. It is now a day celebrated worldwide to encourage people to be kind to one
another and undertake random acts of kindness. It was a movement that
originated in New Zealand through the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, which
believes in the positive power of kindness.
Being kind is excellent for the person receiving the act of kindness, but it also can make the person giving the kindness feel positive and happy. So Random Acts of Kindness Day is a way to spread positivity and joy by doing something nice for those around you.
Why is it Important to Teach Children About Random Acts of Kindness?
Teaching children about Random Acts of Kindness Day is a
great way to open conversations around feelings and well-being. It can encourage
kids to realise the power of their actions and help them develop social skills,
such as empathy, tolerance, and self-awareness.
Teaching children about the positive power of kindness can
empower them to be kind and shape the world in the way they want.
Teaching children some simple random acts of kindness that they can do for someone is a great way to get kids involved in the day and help them learn about kindness and compassion toward others.
What Are Some Tips for Teaching Kids About Random Acts of Kindness?
1) Show them how
When it comes to learning about life, you are a role model for your kids. So, teach them how to be kind by being kind yourself. They will see this and want to copy your positive behaviour.
2) Play and learn
Playing is a great way to teach kids about random acts of kindness. Through play, kids need to respect each other, take turns, act with integrity, and have the courage to climb and explore. All these aspects of play encourage kids to be kind. Next time they go out to play, be sure you acknowledge when they are being kind.
3) Kindness story time
Reading a children’s book about kindness is a great way to teach kids about acts of kindness. These books don’t just have to be about being kind to others. Books about self-confidence, being kind to themselves or the environment and looking after the planet also demonstrate acts of kindness. Get your kids to think broadly about caring and empathy; this will be the best way to teach them about kindness overall.
4) Don’t expect anything in return
Many aspects can make a person kind; acting honestly, being patient and considering others’ feelings are just a few. However, the most important thing to teach your kids is that you don’t act kindly to get something in return. You do it because it is the right thing to do.
5) Keep being kind everyday
Although Random Acts of Kindness Day is a special day to help promote the power of being kind, being kind isn’t a once-a-year thing! Remind your children that to really be kind, you must try to be caring everyday, as that is the best way to be kind.
What Can Parents Do to Encourage Random Acts of Kindness in the Home?
As a parent, there are some easy things that you can do to
encourage random acts of kindness at home.
One of the best ways to do this is by demonstrating kindness
daily, as kids will notice this and wan to follow suit. So, let them see you
being kind to others. For example, when you hold the door for someone in the
café or help your neighbour carry out an errand.
It’s also super important to acknowledge when your kids are
kind to someone and let them know why that was kind. You don’t need to reward
them, but just recognise that what they did was nice and the reason behind it.
This will help to encourage random acts of kindness.
Another way to promote kindness at home is to give your kids
responsibilities. This will help them to learn to be reliable and do what is
expected to support others. For example, if you have a family pet, giving your
kids the responsibility to feed your pet in the mornings helps them to learn responsibility
and compassion towards others.
A creative way to teach your children about kindness at home
would be to ask them to draw a picture of your family acting kind. Then chat
with your little ones about what they have drawn and identify the act of
kindness in their image. This will help them identify acts of kindness and remind
them how they can be kind at home.
Family and kindness go hand in hand. Teaching kids to be respectful and treating people and places in a thoughtful way will naturally encourage them to be kind at home. For example, packing their toys away when they have finished playing so that they treat their home environment with care or sharing toys with siblings and turn-taking during a family game also shows respect and can encourage kindness.
How Can You Celebrate This Day with Your Kids?
A fun way to celebrate Random Acts of kindness day with your kids would be to write and leave kindness notes for each other around the house and yard. These notes will surely bring a smile to your face as you go about your day!
You could celebrate this day by baking a cake together and sharing the washing up duties. This is sure to be a tasty way to mark the day and remind your kids that sharing tasks (and treats!) is a great way to be kind.
Do your kids have a favourite way to show kindness, or perhaps you have your own way of celebrating Random Acts of Kindness Day? Be sure to let us know @PlumPlayAus #LifeAtPlay.
![How to Celebrate the International Day of Happiness [7 Ideas]](https://www.plumplay.com.au/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Untitled-1-768x350.jpg "How to Celebrate the International Day of Happiness [7 Ideas]")
