When it comes to backyard play equipment, jungle gyms are a classic choice. They offer children the chance to climb and swing all while getting some fresh air and exercise. For kids with ADHD/sensory issues those activities are a key part of a sensory diet. However, with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which brand to choose. I reviewed two popular jungle gym brands: ActivPlay and Gorilla. ActivPlay Jungle Gym Review: ActivPlay is a relatively new brand on the outdoor playset equipment scene, but they've already made a name for themselves with their high-quality products and reasonable prices. Their jungle gyms are designed with safety and durability in mind, and they offer a range of sizes and configurations to fit any backyard space. One of the standout features of their newly release line of ActivPlay jungle gyms is that they now have softer colors and additional options like a slide and climbing platforms. They are also made to last with a weather and rust resistant powder-coated steel frame. We live in Arizona and having the powder-coated steel frame here helps protect them from sun damage so they look great longer. Also all of the hardware used in ActivPlay jungle gyms is made of heavy-duty materials, so that the equipment can be used for a long time. Another benefit of ActivPlay jungle gyms is their modular design. That means that there are different “modules” that can fit together so you can customize your set with additional features, such as the jungle line (my son calls it the ninja course), swings, slide, and monkey bars. This lets you create a jungle gym that's tailored to your kid’s interests and abilities, and to your family’s budget. For instance, you can start with the classic ActivPlay Base Camp Jungle Gym Base and add additional items such as the ActivPlay Base Camp Hanging Bridge and Jungle Line Accessory Module etc. as your budget permits or as your kids get older and are ready for new challenges. The biggest downside that I used to see of the ActivPlay Jungle Gyms is that they didn't have a slide as an option. Now with the new ActivPlay Base Camp Playground you have the option for a slide too. My kids love the jungle (ninja) line too. As a bonus the jungle line makes them work harder, using more energy. Gorilla Jungle Gym Review: Gorilla is another well-known brand in the jungle gym market. Their outdoor playset products are designed to be both fun and safe, with a focus on high-quality materials and construction. Gorilla offers a variety of jungle gyms in different sizes and configurations so you can pick which works best for your yard and family. One of the standout features of Gorilla jungle gyms is their use of premium lumber. All of their products are made from 100% cedar wood, which is naturally resistant to decay and insects. And Gorilla's lumber is treated with a protective sealant to help prolong the life of the equipment. Gorilla jungle gyms come with a range of safety features, such as safety handles, non-slip steps, and a solid rock wall. They also offer a variety of accessories, such as tire swings and slides to keep kids engaged and active too. Pricing on Gorilla Jungle Gyms typically is more than ActivPlay Modular Jungle Gyms but they do have a few lower priced options. Feature ActivPlay Jungle Gyms Gorilla Jungle Gyms Safety Sturdy steel frames and durable UV-resistant materials Strong and sturdy wood construction with safety features Customization A variety of sizes and configurations to choose from and modular Wide range of accessories for endless possibilities Height Moderate height for safe play Towering heights for the ultimate backyard adventure Play Features Rock wall, trapeze bar, and slide, jungle line, hanging bridge, climbing platforms Twisty tube slide, cozy clubhouse, and much more Age Range Primary age range 4-12 Primary age range 3-11 Durability Resistant to the elements Strong and long-lasting construction Overall Experience A fun and safe play experience that will keep your kids entertained for hours The ultimate backyard adventure with endless possibilities for imaginative play Both ActivPlay and Gorilla Jungle Gyms do take time to put together. Both have lots of support with assembly instructions and videos to help you through the process. But you do have to be patient and take it step by step. The process can take a DIYer a day or two depending on experience and how much assistance they DIYer has. With lots of excited little hands trying to help out you should probably plan for a few extra days. So, in the review of ActivPlay and Gorilla which should you choose? Both ActivPlay and Gorilla offer high-quality jungle gyms that are designed with safety and durability in mind. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you and your family. If you're looking for an outdoor playset that's customizable and a steel construction, ActivPlay may be the best choice for you. However, if you're looking for a jungle gym made from wood, Gorilla may be the better option. I personally prefer the powder coated steel frame. Regardless of which brand you choose, investing in a jungle gym for your backyard is a great way to encourage your child to stay active and have fun outdoors. If you don't have one already get one. Your kids will love it. For more information on why Jungle Gyms are good for kids please see the following articles: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, playgrounds and jungle gyms offer numerous benefits for children's physical, cognitive, and social development. Playing on jungle gyms can help children develop gross motor skills, balance, coordination, and strength. It also allows them to engage in imaginative play, problem-solving, and risk-taking, which are essential for cognitive development. Additionally, playing on jungle gyms provides opportunities for social interaction, cooperation, and conflict resolution, which are crucial for building social skills and relationships. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics. (2018). The Benefits of Playgrounds for Children Aged 0-5. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/fitness/Pages/The-Benefits-of-Playgrounds-for-Children-Aged-0-5.aspx The National Recreation and Park Association also states that jungle gyms and playgrounds are essential for children's health and well-being. In addition to physical and cognitive benefits, playgrounds provide children with opportunities to engage in unstructured play, which promotes creativity, imagination, and problem-solving. Playing outdoors also exposes children to sunlight, fresh air, and nature, which have numerous health benefits such as boosting vitamin D levels, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving mood. Source: National Recreation and Park Association. (2018). The Benefits of Playgrounds. Retrieved from https://www.nrpa.org/blog/the-benefits-of-playgrounds/
