Function

• Any backyard play structure is designed to help kids play and enjoy themselves, but they also help them develop coordination, and should provide them with a few things to keep their interest and challenge them. Good backyard play structures have a fun theme that stimulates a kid's imagination and helps them come up with fun games, too.
  
  

Types

• There are several kinds of play structures on the market that include wood, plastic and metal construction. Most play sets include swings, climbing areas, playhouses and some kind of theme. Most do not include the landscaping materials like sand, wood chips or small gravel that you will probably want to lay down around them. Look for sturdy structures made of metal or wood, with few sharp or pointed pieces and no exposed bolts.
  
  

Features

• A good backyard play structure has solid wood beams, with stainless steel or galvanized bolts that are counter-sunk into the wood. Solid metal handle bars help kids get up and around the play structure, while composite plastic slides attach to the structure with heavy metal brackets and sit on the ground with sturdy but hidden stands. They also have fun themes and come in several sizes.
  
  

Size

• Backyard play structures usually have playhouses that are 6 x 6 feet and up to 10-feet high. With a swing set attached, they can be 20' long or more. Some sets include upper decks that attach onto the main structure, and most deck heights are 5', 6' or 7' high. They are built for the slides that will attach to them, which are also measured by height, and not length.
  
  

Warning

• Installing a play structure should be fun, not a huge hassle. So, if you are not up to the task of installing one, have a professional do it for you. It will require heavy lifting, and will take more than a day to put together. Most sets require socket wrenches to put together as well. Always be sure the play set is safe, with the strongest beams and flooring available.
  
  

Considerations

• Choose a structure that your kids are going to enjoy, and won't get tired of anytime soon. The play set should be creative enough to hold their attention and inspire them to play. Also consider how long you intend to keep the structure and what you are going to do once the kids outgrow it.