Designing a play space for preschoolers is about building an environment that encourages self-regulation, growth, independence and imagination. We had the opportunity to put these principles into practice during a recent playground installation at a child development center in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Here are some key design considerations, illustrated by features from that project:
Age-appropriate play structure with lots of play value.
Our designers created a play structure specifically designed for ages 2–5, featuring multiple slides and other events scaled for smaller children. This supports both physical development and confidence-building through repetition and safe risk-taking.
Cozy spaces for self-regulation and quiet play.
The design includes dedicated quiet zones like BCI Burke’s Serenity Spot and Niche Capsule, where children can take a break from the sensory stimulation of the main playground. These are essential for emotional regulation and inclusive play.
Opportunities for pretend play to spark imagination.
We incorporated a Pretend Drive-Thru and a Playhouse, giving kids a chance to engage in imaginative social interactions. This type of play is key for cognitive and language development at this age.
Multi-functional seating area.
Seating is great for rest, but it can also be part of the play space. The table and seats on this playground serve dual purposes for sitting or climbing, allowing caregivers to engage with kids while also offering more play opportunities.
Comfortable, shaded area.
Preschoolers are sensitive to heat and sun exposure, so we included large overhead shade structure to keep play events cool and comfortable, encouraging longer and safer outdoor play sessions.
Bright, engaging colors throughout.
From the unitary surfacing to the shade canopy, vibrant colors were used to create visual appeal and help define zones of activity. This makes the space feel exciting and welcoming to young children.
When designing for early childhood education, it is important to consider where they are developmentally. Play spaces should spark joy and curiosity while providing a safe, age-appropriate environment for children to learn and grow. Our Harrisonburg project brought these elements together, resulting in an exciting space where kids can thrive.