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AIRPORT AMENITIES REVIEW 22 airportbusiness August/September 2014 NAVIGATING crowded termi- nals with a stroll- er, diaper bags and kids in tow is no day at the beach. But a new 1,300-square-foot, beach-themed children's play area at Los Angeles International Airport's Tom Bradley International Terminal is less- ening the torment of travel for stressed parents and children. The 971-square-foot, post-security play area, open to children ages two to eight, features soft, sculpted foam pieces resembling waves, surf- boards, beach toys and dolphins. "Many airports do aviation themes, but LAX took something the area is very famous for—their beaches, and worked with us to create a beach-themed play area that showcases the city's amenities at the airport," says Jeff Williamson, business development associate at PLAYTIME LLC, a playground equipment manufacturer. It seems a no-brainer to fashion a family-friendly space for children to play, but Williamson confesses these areas are often an after-thought in airport terminal design. The spaces need at least 250-square-feet to exist, but most play areas average 750 to 1,200 square feet to allow for several play structures. "We're often called in to retrofit a space that isn't necessarily the best location for what they're trying to accom- plish," he says. "The best areas are those in an inline space or in the middle of terminals." He also recommends airports consider adding at least one of these play areas per terminal. "You don't want parents to have to rush from one terminal to another to be able to enjoy this amenity," he says. "Strategic placement can lead to additional retail sales and more traffic in these areas, and keeping kids away from the gates is sometimes more enjoyable for other customers." The possibilities for the play structures are endless, but Williamson recommends considering the age of the children who are generally younger kids who are still learning gross motor skills. Play structures need to be varied. One might have a tunnel, while another has a slide, and a third has wheels and knobs for kids to turn. The elements should also be soft-sided and constructed of antimicrobial materials. The average cost for these structures is $135 per square feet installed. Williamson notes this price includes full seating, a custom theme, safety flooring, and the play elements themselves. "It averages around $100,000 to have a play area installed," he says. That price tag might seem more than a cash-strapped airport can bear but many airports look to community and retailer partnerships to support it. "Many times airports have companies bidding to sponsor these play areas because it's such a focused demographic for them," Williamson says. Child's Play Los Angeles International Airport adds a children's play area that proves travel can be a day at the beach By Ronnie L. Garrett