climbing frames are increasingly being seen in gardens and small yards. What is it that makes them so much fun

Once associated with school playgrounds, climbing frames are increasingly being seen in gardens and small yards. What is it that makes them so much fun?

There's no doubt about it - kids love climbing frames! There's something about them that seems to inspire the imagination. A simple frame can soon become a pirate ship or a castle when left in the hands of a child.

Part of the fascination that they hold relates to the sense of adventure and exploration that is associated with them. We can sometimes overlook that they are large pieces of equipment in a little world.

Their popularity is one factor that has led to their appearance in gardens and other areas of private land. Another is that parents, worried by some news stories, are increasingly looking at ways to provide a safer playing environment for their children.

A climbing frame, when constructed in a garden, is seen by many as a good way of providing such an environment. While younger children, in particular, will still need to be monitored when at play, they also offer that sense of adventure and freedom that many kids enjoy.

Prices vary and are seen by some as being expensive. That can certainly be the case with some models. A good approach for those on a smaller budget is to start out with a smaller piece of kit and then aim to expand it over time.

This often works well as the later expansions can be timed to coincide with house moves, or simply as children grow older and look for more of a challenge.

TP climbing frames are one of the UK's largest suppliers and specialise in the provision of this sort of equipment - it's worth checking out their range if you are interested in making a purchase.

There seems no doubt that climbing frames will continue to be popular and that they will continue to be a great way for kids to play. Many parents have taken advantage of such equipment to provide a way of playing that is both fun and safe.