Ideas for adding natural elements to your outdoor play space - Part 2

Welcome to part 2 in a series of posts looking at how you can add natural elements to your backyard or playground cheaply, simply and easily.

The beauty of natural playscapes is that there is no blueprint - no set formula to follow - they can evolve slowly to meet the interests of the children or the resources that you have to hand.

Tree stumps provide endless possibilities outdoors - just look at this wonderful seating arrangement:

From the Aspetuck Land Trust Blog

How about creating a pathway using cut off lengths of branches:

Caring Connections Natural Playscape 2011

Fallen logs become nature's balance beams:

Recently at our preschool my lovely colleague planted two rows of Lilli Pillis and native grasses in tyres - when they grow in they will create a natural space for the children to hide and play:   

This was cheap and easy - the plants were all on special at the local nursery and came in at under $120, and with willing little helpers the gardening was done and dusted and in a day.

Requiring a bit more time and skill than our tyre garden, this labyrinth at Stony Point school adds a touch of whimsy and wonder to a play space:

You might also be interested in reading:

::: Labyrinths in Children's Playscapes
::: Just Add Stones, Stumps, Logs and Mounds
::: Nature Play - Simple and Fun Ideas for All - A practical guide on nature play offers fun, simple and cost   effective examples of play ideas from easily sourced materials.

Have you got an idea that has worked for you?

I'd love you to share it with us in the comments below.

Stay tuned for more in the series on natural elements for outdoor playscapes tomorrow.