Designing a play space for children aged 1–5 requires a completely different approach to school-age playground design. Young children are developing fundamental movement skills, sensory awareness, and social behaviour — and the right equipment supports all three.
Toddler equipment should be scaled for small bodies: lower platforms, gentle gradients, and features that encourage exploration without demanding skills children haven’t yet developed. Look for low platforms under 600mm fall height for under-3s, wide steps with handrails, gentle slides, and sensory play elements including musical instruments, sand/water play, and textured surfaces.
AS 4685 specifies different requirements for equipment designed for children under 3 — smaller opening dimensions, lower fall heights, and specific surfacing depths. Childcare centres operating under the National Quality Framework are assessed against NQS Quality Area 3 (physical environment), making a well-designed outdoor play space essential for your rating.
Sun safety is mandatory for Australian childcare centres. All play equipment areas must have adequate shade from sails, permanent structures, or mature trees.
Browse our toddler range or contact Kidzspace for a free design consultation.
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Copyright © Kidzspace. All Rights Reserved.