So if you redeemed 8000 Campbells lables you probably got like 2 jump ropes (not a big fan of that program). I would recommend talking with the teachers. They really know what is needed.
Last year we did exactly what you are doing and through an online company purchased footballs, soccer balls, kickballs, various jump ropes, velcro catching things, hula hoops, soft frisbees, some bean bags (for hopscotch), some rubber bases (for kickballs) and more. We actually separated everything by grade (as the grades take recess separatly) and put everything into a rolling storage container and painted the grade number on the side. Each grade is responsible for their equipment. If they don't take care of it they won't have it.
In addition we resurfaced the blacktop near the playground and working with the VerizonPioneers, a non-profit organization, we stenciled a map of the United States, as well as four square courts and hopscotch.
Before you purchase a stencil - check with your school district or local parks district, or other schools. Many may have them already and all you need to do is just ask. Portable soccer goals, hoops are great as well. You may want to look in such catalogs as Gopher, or School Speciality to check out products. Many school districts already get discounts through specific catalog companies that they have negotiated and you can benefit from the ground work they've laid. They send in the P.O. and when it comes time for the bill to be paid - they simply bill the PTO and it's all done.
There a many things you can do to provide recess entertainment for the younger set without breaking a budget or spend too much.
Though handballs, sandbox toys, and jump ropes are nice, it's not completely necessary to have, nor do you need to purchase that many.
Permanently paint lines for hopscotch on concrete. Purchase concrete-safe chalk for kids to doodle and draw on the ground (it'll wash off in the rain or from a hose).
To maximize the use of toys such as balls, AGAIN, make good use of available concrete spaces! Have lines painted on the concrete for the game of "four squares" where four kids can play simultaneously with the ball as opposed to just one or two. These multi-player games can also help encourage social interaction and development with everyone on the playground.
We budgeted $500 to give each class (grades 1-5) some new playground equipment. I was able to purchase some really nice footballs, soccer balls, and swivel sticks from Toys R Us in the Fall at very discounted prices. We only spent $100 on $400 worth of merchandise. And I just went on to Campbell's and redeemed just about all of our 8,000 points on jump ropes, basketballs, etc. I think I'm set for the 4th and 5th graders. But I'm having a hard time coming up with any ideas for the lower grades.
Does anyone have any ideas what 1st and 2nd graders like to play during recess?
