Columbus

Set forth on a new adventure of play on the Columbus play structure. Centered around climbing and balance, play activities push kids to the next level of fun. Playtime starts at the Helix Spinner. Kids will work to maintain their balance as it goes round and round. As they move onto the center of the structure, they can take a moment to rest on the Suspended PlayShells. Next, kids can grip onto the amorphous shapes on the NaviClimb as they pull themselves up the curved bridge. Next to it sits the Double Disk Cable. Made up of a circular and a triangular disk, kids will have to work to balance on the shapes. As they continue around, they will work their way up the Challenge Climb. The double-sided wall guides children up and over easily. Finally, the Twisted Trident provides a new feel to a vertical climb with its wavy steps.

The benefits to challenge style courses are innumerable. Oftentimes, older children do not feel challenged on the more traditional style structures. With the multiple free-form shapes and unusual climbers, children have to find a way to play. This encourages imaginative play the narrative is no longer forced by themed pieces. Children have to become their own authors of the story. Finally, while obstacle structure typically don't have decks, they encourage more full body weight work. When there is a surface under their feet on classic structures, they don't have to balance and support themselves. Moving up a ladder, or climbing up suspended components requires more strength and constant balance.

For a similarly sized play system, check out the North Star, Global, Nina, and Magellan. If you are more interested in something a little bit larger, the Seeker, the Pinta, the Voyage, the Santa Maria, and the Expedition. For an even larger system, check out the Trek and the Peak Adventure.