A Dad's 3 Benefits to Outside Play

King Swings comprises parents who know the importance of constantly getting children outside under the sun and breathing in the fresh air. While all parents understand the importance of outdoor play, we can all agree that getting the kids outside can be challenging.

King Swings helps solve that challenge, but first, let me lay out my parenthood credentials to show that I sympathize and understand the challenges you face. 

I have three kids, ages 10 to 6. I have changed approximately 1.2 billion diapers. I know the trick about lining throw-up buckets with plastic bags so you can swap quickly in the middle of the night. I have felt the terror of being suddenly awakened by a little face inches from your own. 

Yet, for all my experiences and knowledge, I can’t set up or take down a pack-and-play. 

In my years of parenting, I have noticed three significant benefits when the kids play outside. To make this applicable to everyone, I will discuss benefits available whether or not you own or plan on purchasing a swing set or playhouse. Ultimately, I’ll explain why King Swings’ playsets and swing sets make these benefits more convenient, comfortable, and reliable. 

The Benefits

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1) Boosts Creativity and Imagination

When my kids spend unstructured time outside—running, climbing, jumping, stomping, and screaming—their pretend play becomes more energetic and immersive. Big movements fuel big imaginations. Suddenly, they’re adventurers, heroes, and explorers, completely wrapped up in their world.

Sure, that kind of play can happen indoors—but not for long, without someone asking them to quiet down. Outside, they have more freedom to be loud, wild, and fully engaged without parents constantly on top of them—and that’s when the best play happens.

2) Supports Emotional Regulation

Spending time outside—running, climbing, breathing fresh air—helps my kids reset. When they’re grumpy, restless, or overwhelmed, playing outdoors almost always turns things around. They come back inside calmer, happier, and more balanced.

I may not know the science behind it, but I’ve seen it enough times to know it works. Outdoor play helps regulate their emotions and energy in a way nothing else does. And in a world that keeps rushing kids to grow up faster, giving them that kind of space just to be kids feels more important than ever.

3) Harmony in the House

Something happens when kids get outside. With space to run, climb, yell, and explore, their energy finds a natural outlet. They aren’t being told to quiet down or sit still—they’re free to move and play on their own terms. That freedom shifts their mood and mindset.

Siblings who may have been bickering before they went outside reconnect through shared adventures in the yard. Arguments often turn into team missions, and chasing each other through the yard somehow smooths over tension. The fresh air, the movement, the space—it all works together to help kids feel better, think clearly, and play more cooperatively.

 

King Swings: Making Outside Play Easy

 

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I get it. Getting kids outside can be a challenge, especially when the weather isn’t perfect and screens call to them like a sultry siren. But we send them out anyway—for their sake and ours.

It’s a lot easier when something is waiting that draws them in. A custom swing set or playhouse from King Swings gives them that first reason to head out the door. The rest comes naturally once they start climbing, swinging, and imagining.

A custom swing set or playhouse from King Swings is hard to beat. We’ve been handcrafting swing sets, playhouses, and backyard playgrounds for over 35 years and have earned 100s of 5-star reviews.

I see three benefits from a backyard swing set for kids, especially a custom-designed, vinyl swing set from King Swings.

The King Swings Benefits

 

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1) Convenience

Just open the back door and shoo them out. You don’t have to comb their hair, find the missing shoe, pack the diaper bag, or even be presentable yourself like you would if you were heading to the local park. The convenience of a playset in your backyard cannot be overstated. 


As important as getting out to the creek, the local trails, or other outdoor adventures is that it is not possible to do every day.  A playset helps keep outdoor play going daily in the convenience of your backyard.

2) Safety

At King Swings, safety is at the heart of every design. Our swing sets are built with strong, pressure-treated lumber wrapped in maintenance-free vinyl, offering strength and a splinter-free finish. Heavy-duty hardware, secure railings, and thoughtful layouts ensure kids can play confidently while parents have peace of mind. 

3) Durable, Built to Last

King Swings sets are built to last. Every component, from the hardware to the roof, is chosen for long-term performance. These sets are made to handle years of play by both kids and parents, and changing seasons without breaking down or wearing out. When investing in a King Swings set, you invest in years of backyard memories.

Bring the Playground Home

If this resonates with you and you think this is the year you explore a swing set or playhouse for your backyard, we are here to guide you through the process. From the initial questions to your final swing set design, we want to help you select the perfect backyard playset for your family. 

How do you get started? The first step is to explore our options on our website to get a good feel for what we offer and how it all works together. Then, contact us and we will help bring your vision to life. 

And since we take care of the delivery and installation of your swing set, it's really that easy to start reaping the benefits of outdoor play. Hold down the button below to give us a call!

 

Justin Doutrich

Dad to three kids, Justin knows how important it is for children to get lots of physical exercise. His time as a school teacher reinforced that idea. He is passionate about creating fun, enjoyable playgrounds that are safe but full of learning opportunities.

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