The Backyard Bunch

THE BACKYARD BUNCH
MAKE YOUR BACKYARD THE NEXT BEST THING TO THE PARK WITH THESE SUPER-GROOVY
OUTDOOR PLAY STRUCTURES

Rainbow Play’s Castle Series Swing Set offers a climbing wall, rope ladders, a variety of swings and a slide. It’s offered in the rainbow colors as shown, but also is available with more subtle forest green or yellow accents. If desired, additional elements such as a spiral slide, a “penthouse” play area and monkey bars can be added. (For prices and information, visit www.rainbowplay.com)
Let your kids bounce around all day without your having to worry about their safety with the 16-foot Magic Cage Octagon Trampoline Unit from WillyGoat Toyland. Its six foot-high cage is sewn into the mat, allowing cage to move with the mat so that there are never any openings where a child might get her hands or feet caught. Its 450 pound weight capacity means that you can join them whenever you’re in the mood. ($1099.99, www.willygoat.com)
If you’re handy and looking to save money, check out the Jungle Fort Kit from Detailed Play Systems. For around $500, you’ll receive detailed plans on how to build this structure, as well as the playground components—all you need is the lumber. (For more information, visit www.detailedplay.com)
For a high-quality, attractive swing set that is custom-designed to fit your needs and space, check out Cedar Works. They offer a high-tech computer program and even design consultants to help you custom-create a play structure that fits your needs. (Visit www.cedarworks.com for more information and pricing)
Your favorite girly-girl with love this Victorian Playhouse from Little Cottage Company. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes and comes prebuilt or in a do-it-yourself kit, which is significantly less expensive. (For pricing and more information, visit www.cottagekits.com)
Ideal for tiny tots and crawlers, this Climb, Crawl and Slide Activity Park from WillyGoat Toyland is made of rugged plastic to withstand years of use. A bonus: it can be moved indoors when the weather cools down. ($369.89, www.willygoat.com)

—Chelsea Kaplan

Click here to read all about Deputy Editor/Beauty Director Chelsea Kaplan's life with child in her blog, “I'm Somebody's Mother??