SeeSaws

Our see saw range covers the classic two seater and four seater models, plus spring rockers for the little ones. A see saw is a shared toy, so it works best when you've got two kids close in age. Shopping for an only child or a toddler? A spring rocker is usually the better pick, and you'll find those here too.

What age a see saw suits

Most backyard see saws suit kids from around 3 to 8. Younger than that, the balance and cooperation just aren't there yet, and a spring rocker is the safer, more enjoyable option. Older kids tend to move on to swings, climbing frames and monkey bars.

A see saw only works if both children can hold on, push off with their feet and take turns. If one child is much bigger or older, the ride gets bumpy fast.

Not sure what stage your child is at? Use the Shop by Age filter across the site (0 to 3, 3 to 5, 6 to 8 and up) to narrow things down quickly.

Two seater and four seater options

A two seater is the classic setup. One child at each end, straightforward, and best for siblings or a child with a regular playmate over. It doesn't eat up much room in the yard either.

A four seater suits bigger families, or households where cousins and friends are often around. Two kids sit on each side, so the load spreads and there's less waiting for a turn. You'll need more clearance around it, both for the swing arc and for kids stepping on and off.

If it's usually just two kids playing, stick with the two seater. Four seaters earn their keep when you've regularly got three or more children in the yard.

Spring rockers for younger or solo kids

A spring rocker is a single seat mounted on a heavy spring base, often shaped like a horse, dinosaur or motorbike. One child sits on top and rocks back and forth on their own. No playmate needed.

For a toddler or an only child, this is genuinely the better choice. Spring rockers typically suit kids from around 18 months to 4, and because they don't need a second person to work, they get used far more often than a see saw would.

They also take up less space and sit lower to the ground, which suits smaller kids just finding their balance.

Where to put it and what surface underneath

Put a see saw on level ground with enough clearance for the seats to move up and down freely. Leave at least a metre clear at each end so kids stepping off don't clip anything.

Grass is fine. Bark chips, rubber softfall or a purpose-built play mat are better if you can manage them. Avoid concrete, pavers or hard-packed dirt. If a child bounces off the seat, the surface underneath is what matters.

Check the ground stays level over time too. A see saw that's slowly tilting to one side isn't much fun to use.

How it fits with the rest of your backyard

A see saw is one piece of a bigger outdoor setup, not the whole thing. Most families pair it with a sandpit for younger kids and a swing set or climbing frame once they're steady on their feet.

Shopping for an only child? Honestly, skip the see saw. A climbing frame gives them something they can use on their own, a sandpit suits younger kids brilliantly, and ride on toys get used every day rather than only when a sibling's around.

If you're not sure what suits your yard or your kids, our team is on hand 5 days a week to help you work it out.

Frequently asked questions

What age is a see saw suitable for?

Most backyard see saws suit kids from around 3 to 8. Younger than that, they don't yet have the balance or coordination to take turns pushing off safely. Older kids tend to move on to swings and climbing gear. Use the Shop by Age filter to match a see saw to your child's stage.

Can one child use a see saw alone?

No, a see saw needs two children of similar weight to work. If you're shopping for an only child, a spring rocker is a much better fit since it's designed for solo play. A climbing frame, sandpit or ride on toy will also get far more use in a one-child household.

What surface should a see saw sit on?

Grass on level ground is the minimum. Bark chips, rubber softfall or a play mat are better and give you more cushioning if a child slips off. Avoid concrete, pavers and hard-packed dirt. The surface underneath matters more than any feature on the see saw itself.

Are spring rockers safer than see saws for toddlers?

Yes, for toddlers under 3 a spring rocker is the better pick. It's designed for one child, sits lower to the ground and doesn't rely on a playmate matching their weight or timing. See saws suit slightly older kids who can take turns pushing off and holding on.

How much space do I need for a see saw?

A two seater needs roughly 3 metres of length plus a metre of clearance at each end for the seats moving up and down. A four seater needs more room on all sides. Also leave room for kids to step on and off without bumping other equipment.