SLIDE FOR THE YOUNGER CHILD

Introduction

This is a small slide for children to climb up and slide down. It is large enough to be functional, yet small enough to be carried in the trunk or back seat area of even compact cars. Also it is lightweight and strong enough for rough-and-tumble use.

This little slide is an ideal height for the very young child. The child can crawl up to the slide, pull himself to the waist, and then slide down head first. Because the end of the slide is right on the floor, the child can also crawl up the ramp. It is also great for rolling cars down.

Materials Needed

• 1 sheet of 4′ x 4′ x 3/8″ birch plywood, cut to sizes shown on cutting scheme and piece detail drawings
• Elmer’s Carpenter Glue
• Wire brads: 1″ x #17
• Varathane gloss varnish

Tools Needed

• Table saw
• Sander
• Fine sandpaper
• 1-1/8″ power wood boring bit and electric drill
• Saber saw
• Hammer
• Ruler
• Square
• Brush

Cutting Instructions

This is the cutting scheme for one slide. To get the full dimensions, make the first cut as noted, then the second cut as noted. Use one 4′ x 4′ x 3/8″ sheet of plywood.

Construction Suggestions

Use 3/8″ birch plywood made in Finland or Leningrad. These are of the strongest grade and have seven plies of birch veneer. U.S.-made birch plywood and birch veneer are satisfactory. A-A grade fir plywood is also satisfactory, but requires more sanding, especially on ends and corners.

Cut out the pieces according to the cutting scheme, keeping in mind where the saw kerf will occur.

Assembly Notes

Sand top pieces smooth after mounting on top of end piece.

Sand or cut at an angle the top piece to fit the slide piece.

Sand lightly between coats.