Sunshine and childhood fun go hand-in-hand. Clear, warm days are perfect for getting outside and enjoying a park playground! But sometimes, there can be too much of a good thing. Even the brightest smiles will fade under the relentless glare of a hot Carolina sun. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, that initial joy can quickly turn to discomfort if there’s nowhere to escape the heat. That’s why playground shade is a critical component of outdoor play spaces.

Playground Shade Protects Growing Bodies

When designing a park playground, you’re naturally going to focus on the equipment and amenities. Slides, swings, and climbers are a given. Picnic tables, garbage cans, and bike racks will probably top your list, too. But don’t overlook playground shade: it’s not just a nice extra, but an essential element for safe and enjoyable outdoor play.

The sun, in case you didn’t realize, is hot. It can burn skin easily — and that can lead to serious health issues in later years. Kids are more susceptible to sunburn and long-term UV damage than adults, so protecting children from these hazards is paramount. Sunburns aren’t just painful; they can discourage kids from wanting to play outside altogether. Playground shade structures act as a protective barrier, blocking up to 97% of the sun’s harmful rays and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. 

Shaded areas also provide a welcome oasis for parents and caregivers, allowing them to relax and keep an eye on their young charges without worrying about spontaneously combusting. 

Keep Park Playground Equipment Shaded, Too

The sun isn’t just tough on little bodies; it’s rough on park playground equipment, too. Constant exposure can cause fading, cracking, and warping, making the equipment less attractive and potentially unsafe. Playgrounds can become sweltering under the direct sun, making slides searing hot and turning sandboxes into miniature Sahara deserts. Even rubber surfaces can get uncomfortably warm. 

Playground shade creates a cooler play area, protecting kids from these painful hazards and allowing them to play for longer periods without overheating or risking heatstroke. And it helps preserve park playground equipment, keeping it looking vibrant and extending its lifespan.

Explore Our Playground Shade Structures

Barrs Recreation is committed to creating spaces where children can play, rest, and engage with others while being protected from the sun’s harmful effects. We offer a large selection of quality park shelters and playground shade features from manufacturers like Superior Shade and BCI Burke — companies equally invested in childhood safety and comfort. Options include:

• Park Shelters
• Pavilions
• Gazebos
• Pergolas
• Shade Sails
• Playground Shade Roofs

If your playground lacks shade structures, we can help! Think of playground shade as an investment that will benefit the health and happiness of children in your community for years to come. Contact the Barrs Recreation team today for more information!