Sun-Smart Playgrounds: Find Shade with Our 3D Playground Sun Tracker
August 6, 2025
This interactive map uses a 3D model to show playground shade coverage throughout the year, helping parents find sun-smart playtimes.
The Backstory
As a parent myself, I know the struggle of finding the perfect playground temperature for my little one. Sunstroke or frostbite? No thanks! So, I built this 3D playground sun tracker to alleviate that very problem. It's geeky, I know, but seeing the 3D model accurately predict the shade in my local park...pure satisfaction! It's my ode to problem-solving and sun-smart parenting.
How to Play
Browse the map to find playgrounds near you.Select a date and time to see the predicted sun and shade patterns.Plan your playground visit for optimal shade coverage (or sunshine, if that's your jam!).
From The Community: Top Comments
This is really cool. Seems pretty accurate for my local playgrounds. Not perfect but a great idea, effort and implementation. Thank you!
How can I compute it for France's playground?
This is pretty awesome, thank you.
This is awesome! I was going to take my kids to the park yesterday, but it was almost 100 degrees at 10 in the morning so we stayed inside.
Question: is a higher percentage better or worse? It says x% coverage. Does that mean x% of the park is covered in sun, or x% of the park is covered in shade?
The Remix Station
Think this toy has more potential? Vote for your favorite remix idea!
🌍 Global Shade Seekers
Expand the map globally, adding playground data and sun simulations from around the world.
0 Votes
🤖 Shade-o-Matic 2000
Incorporate real-time weather data to improve the accuracy of the shade predictions.
0 Votes
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the sun and shade prediction on this playground map?
The accuracy depends on various factors, but the 3D model provides a good estimation based on the playground's location and surroundings.
Can I contribute playground data or suggest improvements to the map?
Absolutely! We welcome community contributions – check the website for details.