As summer is in full swing and the temperatures continue to rise, there is no better way to cool down and add some backyard fun than with a homemade Slip and Slide! With just a few basic supplies and a Tarp, you can quickly and easily turn your yard into a water playground.
What You Will Need
- A heavy duty Tarp or multiple Tarps (a 6’ X 20’ or 6’ X 30’ Poly Tarp works great, the longer the better!)
- A grassy area, ideally with a slight slope. Flat will work just fine.
- Ground stakes to secure or line the edges through the grommets
- A garden hose or sprinkler
- Tear-free soap or kids’ body wash (optional for extra slip)
- A soft landing area (such as an inflatable kiddie pool, swimming noodles, or another Tarp)
Here are the Basic Steps in Setting Up Your Slip and Slide
Step 1: Choose the Right Spot
Select a grassy area with a gentle downhill slope, if possible, this adds speed and fun. Flat ground will work well too. Make sure the ground is free of rocks, sticks, or anything sharp that can cause injuries or damage the Tarp.
Step 2: Lay Out the Tarp
Spread your Tarp flat over the area. If you have more than one tarp, overlap them and use Tarp Tape or duct tape to secure the seams underneath so water does not leak through the gaps or pull apart. The size will be determined by the length of the yard. A 6’ X 20’ or 6’ X 30’ will work great. Add a few Tarps length to length and you will have a tremendous run.
Step 3: Securing the Sides
Use ground or garden stakes to pin down the corners and sides through the grommets of the Tarp to help prevent it from shifting. It is vital to inspect the stakes before each use to make sure they have not come up and become a hazard to the sliders. The Tarp will work without being secured, but will be more prone to move around.
Step 4: Make a Safe Stop
At the end/bottom of your Slip and Slide, make a soft landing zone, such as an inflatable kiddie pool, swimming noodles, or another Tarp folded into layers. These landing zone will help keep sliders from skidding off onto the grass.
Step 5: Time for the Water
Hook up a garden hose at the top of the slide or a sprinkler alongside. A bucket can also be used to add water. Let the water run down the Tarp to keep it slick. For extra slipperiness, add a small amount of tear-free soap, kids’ body wash, or mild dish soap, just make sure not to overdo it to avoid a soapy mess.
Step 6: Slide and Have Fun!
Once everything is wet and slippery, take turns sliding down.…..one at a time. Always supervise kids and remind everyone to slide feet first to keep things safe.
Pro Tips
- Use a Tarp that has a slick surface and is durable and thick to hold up to the use and avoid rips.
- Always check for sharp objects under the tarp and loose stakes before use.
- Keep a hose, sprinkler, or bucket handy to add water as needed.
- Never leave kids unattended on the slide and insist on sliding feet first.
More Slip and Slide Ideas
There are other fun and exciting ways to utilize Tarps for Slip and Slide activities. Click here to view a video of a Duke University Co-Innovation Lab student who designed a Soap Hockey rink using a large Tarps Now Heavy Duty Poly Tarp: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PyoIPePDRs.
With a little creativity, you can develop your own Slip and Slide Sports.
Questions?
If you have questions or need help with selecting the right Tarp for your situation, please do not hesitate in contacting Tarps Now at (888) 800-1383 or sales@tarpsnow.com. One of our knowledgeable and pleasant team members located at the Michigan headquarters looks forward to speaking with you.
With a sturdy Poly Tarp and a little water, you will have a homemade Slip and Slide that brings hours of backyard summer enjoyment.
