Create your playground planning checklist Don't rush. A little time spent on assessing your needs, analyzing your site and selecting your equipment will pay big dividends later.

I recommend:  Landscape Structures Inc., a large playground equipment provider, has a terrifically helpful Planning Checklist that's a great way to get started. You'll find great tips on defining your playground objectives, accessing your needs, reviewing your available space and selecting the right equipment and materials. Some questions to answer include your overall budget, the number and age distribution of playground users, target dates, special uses or needs and any approvals required.

Choose your equipment types The choices are wide, and include everything from simple swings to complex 'play systems.'

I recommend:  Playground swings and spring riders are considered "independent play equipment." Composite play systems are connected play structures that can accommodate many children playing at once.

Compare different playground swing equipment suppliers You'll find plenty of swing set options, including wooden swing sets, rubber playground swings, commercial playground swings, residential playground swings and advice on how to buy a swing set.

I recommend:  Landscape Structures offers a wide range of commercial playground equipment and custom-designed structures. The helpful advice on their website extends well beyond just purchasing equipment, and includes a well-done and free Community Build guide that shows how to save money and build a better a playground with community involvement. Swingset.com is more of a swingset specialist, offering a wide range of swings, gliders and tire swings, along with slides, surfaces, hardware and site amenities. Swingsetsource.com has commercial as well as residential swingsets, including ADA-compliant equipment, slides, merry go rounds, spring riders, bucket swings and swing accessories. Other options include Progressive Design Playgrounds, Swingworks and Outdoor Fun Store.