Choosing the Best Playground Slide for Your School

11 February 2026

Slides are another iconic piece of playground equipment that have been delighting children for generations. The thrill of climbing to the top and sliding down is a simple pleasure that never gets old. At Kidzspace, we know that a well-chosen slide can be the centrepiece of any school playground. This guide will help you understand the different types of playground slides, the key safety considerations, and how to choose the best slide for your school.

The Joy and Benefits of Playground Slides

Playground slides offer a multitude of benefits for children. The most obvious benefit is the development of gross motor skills. Climbing the ladder to the top of the slide helps to build strength and coordination, while the act of sliding helps children develop their balance and spatial awareness. Slides also provide a valuable sensory experience, with the feeling of wind rushing past and the sensation of speed providing a thrilling and engaging experience.

Beyond the physical benefits, slides can also help children develop important social and emotional skills. They learn to take turns, wait patiently in line, and share the equipment with their peers. The sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering a tall slide can also help to build confidence and self-esteem. For many children, the slide is the first piece of “big kid” equipment they master, making it a significant milestone in their playground journey.

Types of Playground Slides

Playground slides come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. The best slide for your school will depend on the age of the students, the available space, and your budget. Here are some of the most popular types of playground slides:

Straight Slides: These are the most basic type of slide, with a straight, single chute. They are a great option for younger children and for playgrounds with limited space.

Wavy Slides: These slides have one or more bumps or waves in the chute, which adds an extra element of fun and excitement. Wavy slides are a popular choice for children of all ages.

Spiral Slides: Also known as tube slides, these slides have a spiral or corkscrew shape. They can be either open or enclosed, with enclosed slides providing an extra sense of adventure. Spiral slides are a great way to add a lot of sliding fun in a relatively small footprint.

Embankment Slides: These slides are built into a hill or embankment, which provides a natural and aesthetically pleasing way to incorporate a slide into your playground. Embankment slides are a great option for natural playgrounds.

Toddler Slides: These are smaller, lower slides that are designed specifically for toddlers and preschoolers. They have a gentle slope and extra safety features, such as high sides and a long, flat exit area.

Safety is Paramount

As with all playground equipment, safety is the number one priority when it comes to slides. All slides should be designed and installed in accordance with Australian playground safety standards. Here are some of the key safety considerations for playground slides:

Height: The height of the slide should be appropriate for the age of the children who will be using it. Taller slides should only be used by older children who have the necessary strength and coordination to climb the ladder and slide down safely.

Slope: The slope of the slide should be steep enough to be fun, but not so steep that it is dangerous. The ideal slope will depend on the type of slide and the material it is made from.

Exit Area: The area at the bottom of the slide should be clear of any obstacles and should have a soft, impact-absorbing surface. The exit area should be long enough to allow children to come to a complete stop before getting off the slide.

Handrails and Barriers: The platform at the top of the slide should have handrails and barriers to prevent children from falling. The ladder or stairs leading to the platform should also have handrails.

Material: Playground slides can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and fibreglass. Plastic slides are the most common choice for modern playgrounds, as they are durable, weather-resistant, and do not get as hot as metal slides in the sun.

Find the Perfect Slide with Kidzspace

Choosing the right slide for your school playground is a big decision. At Kidzspace, we are here to help. Our team of playground experts can guide you through the process, from selecting the right type of slide to ensuring that it is installed safely and correctly.

We offer a wide range of commercial playground slides that are designed to meet the highest standards of safety and durability. Our slides are made from high-quality, UV-stabilised plastic that is built to last in the harsh Australian climate. Whether you’re looking for a simple straight slide for your preschool or a thrilling spiral slide for your primary school, we have the perfect solution for you.

Contact us today to learn more about our range of playground slides. We can provide you with a free, no-obligation quote and help you design a playground that will be the envy of every school in the neighbourhood. You can also explore our full range of school playground equipment online to see what’s possible for your school.