DIY Outdoor Buddy Benches: Spread Kindness and Create a Space for All Kids

Introduction

When was the last time you and your child sat together and talked on a bench? You may have gone to the park or just strolled through your neighborhood. In either case, there was likely a bench nearby where you could have taken a break. Unfortunately, not all neighborhoods are created equal. Some have a lot of benches, while others don’t have any.

What Are Buddy Benches and How Can They Promote Kindness?

Do you remember the last time you felt lonely in a new place? Maybe you were the new kid at school or the only person who didn’t have anyone to sit with during lunch. It’s a feeling that most of us have experienced at one time or another, and it’s not fun.

That’s what buddy benches are for. They’re a designated spot on the playground where kids can go when they feel lonely or want to make new friends. And they’re not just for kids new to the school or playground—any child can use them.

Buddy benches are a great way to promote kindness on the playground. When kids see someone sitting on the bench, they know they can talk to them. It’s a way of breaking down barriers and helping kids to connect.

What Materials Are Needed to Build an Outdoor Buddy Bench?

All you need are a few simple materials to get started on your very own Outdoor Buddy Bench:

– 4 – 2x4x8 boards

– 2 – 1x4x8 boards

– Wood screws

– Sandpaper (optional)

– Primer and paint or sealant (optional)

The first step is to determine the size of your bench. Our bench is 48″ long, so we cut our 2x4s into four 12″ pieces and our 1x4s into two 24″ pieces. If you want a different size, adjust the measurements accordingly.

Once you have your pieces cut, it’s time to assemble the bench. Start by attaching the four 12″ boards to the two 24″ boards using wood screws. Ensure the edges are flush and the screws are sunk below the surface of the wood.

If desired, you can sand down any rough edges and give your bench a coat of primer, paint, or sealant. Display your finished product pridefully, knowing that you helped make your community a kinder and more inclusive space!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Building a DIY Outdoor Buddy Bench

You’re probably wondering how to make your own DIY outdoor buddy bench.

Wonder no more! We’ve got you covered with these easy-to-follow instructions.

But before we start, let’s discuss why buddy benches are so important.

Buddy benches are a place where all kids can feel welcome. They provide a space for kids feeling lonely or left out and allowed them to make new friends.

So let’s get started on building your very own buddy bench!

Creative Ways to Personalize Your Outdoor Buddy Bench

Ready to make your own Outdoor Buddy Bench? Here are some creative ways to personalize yours. You can paint, carve, or even make an upcycled version out of old resources.

If you’re working on a budget, consider repurposing an old bench and giving it a fresh coat of paint. Get the kids involved and have them have fun by adding stripes or polka dots or even designing a bench with their favorite superhero.

Think about carving the bench out of wood for a more hands-on approach. Once finished, you can add detail and character to the DIY Outdoor Buddy Bench using colorful stains, brushes, and wood-burning tools.

Another great option for those who prefer something unique and sustainable is to upcycle materials, such as salvaged wood from pallets or old window frames, into something special that’s all your own. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Maintaining an Outdoor Buddy Bench

Once you have your new Outdoor Buddy Bench, taking care of it is important. To do this, ensure that the wood and metal of the bench are properly sealed and coated with weatherproof paint. This will help protect them from the elements and wear and tear. Additionally, you should periodically check for signs of rusting or deterioration due to weathering.

You should also make sure that the Outdoor Buddy Bench is placed in a spot where it is visible but safe from potential vandalism. It also helps to regularly inspect the bench to ensure that all screws and nuts are in place and tightened. Finally, treat your bench with a protective sealant or paint once a year or as necessary–just like any outdoor furniture.

DIY Outdoor Buddy Bench Ideas You’ll Love

You can make a DIY outdoor buddy bench using various materials and tools. One great idea is to use pallet wood to create a fun, rustic-looking bench that’s sure to be a hit with the kids. Pallet wood is easy to find and use, and you can purchase pallets that have already been disassembled.

Another option is to use upcycled materials like old tires or large pieces of plywood. You could even use the old furniture lying around the house or something you picked up at a flea market. Once you have your materials, use paint to give them a bright and cheerful look, or stain them for a more subtle effect.

Then add fun accents like colorful cushions, pillows, or even planters filled with flowers. You could even attach chalkboard paint to the sides of the bench so kids can express themselves through art!

Benefits Of Sammies Buddy Bench

Sammies Buddy Bench project is playground equipment designed to promote socialization and inclusion among children. They are typically placed in school playgrounds meant to signal to other children that someone is feeling lonely or left out and is looking for someone to play with.

Some potential benefits of using a Buddy Bench include the following:

1. Encouraging children to be more inclusive and welcoming to their peers
2. Providing a safe and visible place for children to go if they are feeling lonely or left out
3. Promoting socialization and friendships among children
4. Helping children learn how to cope with and address feelings of loneliness and exclusion

It is important to note that the benefits of a Buddy Bench will depend on how it is used and implemented in a given setting. It is also important to consider other strategies that may be used to promote socialization and inclusion among children, such as inclusive recess activities and social skills training programs.

GreenTree Plastics in Evansville, Indiana, made benches out of used plastic caps and lids.

If you want to read Top 10 Best Kids Tool Benches for 2023.

And read more about Built in Bench With Storage.

Conclusion

You can build a bench like this one in just a few hours, and it would be a great way to add extra seating to your patio or create a designated space for kids to sit together and play. It would also make a great place for adults to sit and take a break.

This project is a great way to show your community that you care about inclusion and kindness, and it would be a great way to get your kids involved in helping out with a project that will benefit everyone.