We are looking for inexpensive covers for our school and the ones i found run from 10,000 and up and we just can't afford that.. i have looked and came up with nothing... any ideas on what we can do?????? please help!

Shade is a very important consideration for all playgrounds, but especially in warmer climates. As you mentioned, large shade structures over the playground provide the best cover, but are also extremely expensive. Another option is to work with the playground designer when you're planning a new playground so that they incorporate as many shade roofs as possible actually on the structure. While some surfaces will still get hot, the majority of the playground would still be safe to play on. It's also worth thinking about what type of materials you're using, and trying to stay away from as many mental surfaces as possible.

The last, and arguably best, option is to either install the playground near existing trees that provide shade, or to plant numerous trees around the playground once it has already been installed. Work with a professional arborist to determine which trees will provide the most shade, which will fare the best in your climate, and how they will grow. Keep in mind that you'll need 7 feet between the play surface and any shade to ensure that things stay safe!

We are a year round k-5 elementary in NC. Our typical July and August temps are around 100*. Unfortunatley, that means that either the kids cant go outside because of the heat index, or if they do get out, the playground equipment is so hot you can't touch it.
We were lucky enough to get a grant to cover a shade structure for our kindergarten playground for this past year.
What do other schools do about the heat?