Jungle gyms are the perfect way to get your children outdoors, playing, and enjoying the sunshine. However, over time, they can become bored with the same activities, and the jungle gym in the garden sits unused, gathering cobwebs. Luckily for you, there are plenty of accessories that you can add to customise your jungle gym and make it more engaging and enjoyable for your children. The accessories you choose might allow them to swing from new heights, lounge with friends, or even shoot some hoops! To help you decide what accessories are right, we have included our list of the 10 best accessories that you should add to your jungle gym today. 

Before we dive into our list, it's worth noting that not all accessories will be suitable for and compatible with every jungle gym. Check with the manufacturers before adding any accessories, and ensure you have the necessary safety precautions in place to keep your children safe. 

1. Basketball hoop 

A basketball hoop is the perfect accessory to add to your jungle gym, blending sport and fun for your children. Look for basketball hoops that clip onto the frame of the jungle gym, with the option to change the direction as needed to prevent balls from hitting other children in the jungle gym. If you have children who enjoy sports, then adding a basketball hoop is the perfect option. Look for sets that come with balls included and the necessary tools to anchor the hoop in place. 

2. Hanging cubby 

If your children want some privacy or a quiet space outdoors, adding a hanging cubby is the perfect solution. They typically take up two swing bays on your jungle gym and allow a comfortable cubby to be suspended from the set. The cubby will rock gently in the breeze, or you can push it to provide some movement, adding some fun for your children. The enclosure will offer protection from the sun, too, making it easier for your children to enjoy it year-round. 

When choosing a hanging cubby, ensure it is made from durable material (ideally supported by steel rings) and that the size is suitable for your children, allowing them to climb in and out independently. 

3. Ninja grips 

Ninja grips can be purchased in various styles, including long and round grips, and are an excellent way to improve your children's fitness while providing hours of fun. If your child has enjoyed the monkey bars in their jungle gym, then we recommend adding ninja grips to challenge them and increase the fun. Unlike monkey bars, the ninja grips can swing, making it more challenging (and exciting) as they try to get from one side to another. 

Ninja grips are harder to hold and swing from, so it's an accessory best left for older children who are up for the challenge. Typically, these grips are sold in sets of six, so make sure you measure your space to determine how many grips you will need. 

4. Climbing ladder 

If your jungle gym does not already have a ladder, why not add one? You can add rope climbing ladders to your jungle gym, allowing your children to reach higher parts of your jungle gym and improve their upper arm strength. You want climbing ladders that you can securely attach to the jungle gym, with non-slip steps to prevent any accidents. 

You can usually find climbing ladders in different heights to ensure that everyone can access the jungle gym. Like with other accessories, you will want to check the age and weight restrictions before purchasing. 

5. Flying fox 

If your children enjoy zip lines, consider adding a flying fox to your jungle gym. The long rope features a round disc at the bottom, allowing them to sit on it and fly through the air, just like they would on a zip line. When choosing a zip line, ensure you have the necessary space, including a clearance area, to prevent other children from being hit. Look for ones that promise a strong connection and smooth glide to provide hours of fun to your children. 

6. Shade cover 

While your children can’t play with a shade cover, they will appreciate it, especially during the summer months. A shade cover will help block the sun, preventing the equipment from overheating and becoming too hot for your children to play with. It also creates a shaded area that allows them to enjoy the jungle gym without you worrying about them being in the sun for too long. Look for shade covers that will cover a large area of the jungle gym and provide protection from UVA and UVB rays. 

Shade covers are an excellent choice if you have a metal jungle gym as well. Metal does not absorb heat very well and can be hot to the touch in the summer months. Adding a shade cover prevents this and reduces the risk of your children hurting themselves on hot equipment. 

7. Boxing bag 

A boxing bag is another excellent option if you are looking to improve your child’s fitness or increase their exercise. Boxing bags can be suspended from the jungle gym frame, allowing your children to practice their punches, or even have fun pushing the bag and moving out of the way before it returns. Look for boxing bags that come with gloves included and are easy to hang and remove during wet weather. 

8. Bed swing 

A bed swing is the perfect option if you want to add some relaxation to the jungle gym. A bed swing is a large swing where you can lie down, relax, and be gently rocked to sleep. It's a great option if your child likes to spread out, read outdoors, or you're looking for a more open alternative to a hanging cubby. 

Nest swings do require more space than other swings, so you will need to make sure you have the available space on your jungle gym and a suitable clearance area to ensure the swing does not hit anyone.

9. Monkey swing

A monkey swing is the perfect jungle gym addition for any adventure seeker. The bar can be used for your children to swing with their arms, or even to use upside down, hooking their legs around the bar for support! We do recommend supervision when your children are using this, as the chance of head injuries does increase. 

A monkey swing can also be used as a workout, allowing you to practice chin-ups, ensuring everyone can take advantage of the jungle gym! Check the maximum weight limit before using the monkey swing, and make sure your children know how to keep themselves safe when swinging upside down. 

10. Water mister

Finally, you can add a water mister to your jungle gyms. Water misters are an excellent choice for trampolines and swingsets, and work well with jungle gyms too, cooling your children down and allowing them to enjoy some water play during the summer. You can place the mister directly in the jungle gym and allow it to disperse fine droplets into the area, instantly cooling your children, without the harsh jets of water that a hose can provide. 

With a water mister, you control the flow of water, ensuring that no one gets too wet while still having fun. You will need to monitor the jungle gym to ensure that it does not get too wet and slippery for your children to use, as this can cause accidents. It is better placed above any swings on the set, rather than the surfaces your children are using for climbing. 

Add accessories to your jungle gym today 

Any of these 10 accessories will be an excellent addition to your jungle gym, making it more diverse and ensuring there is plenty to keep your children entertained. You will need to ensure that your jungle gym is compatible with these accessories and that it has sufficient space for them. Vuly offers an impressive range of jungle gyms that can be customised with as many accessories as you like, featuring modular designs that can be easily added to and adjusted as needed. Head to Vuly to find a jungle gym that allows you to add as many accessories as you like!