Climbing Higher: Janet Malin of King Swings on Building Resilience and Joy Through Play

To start things off… I’m Janet Malin, Chief Marketing Officer at King Swings, and I’m thrilled to share our mission. What began as a small family business in Pennsylvania more than 35 years ago has grown into the nation’s leading brand for premium swing sets and playhouses, serving both residential and commercial spaces. Rooted in Amish craftsmanship, we embrace innovation to design playsets that balance durability, safety, and modern aesthetics. Every set is made-to-order and fully customizable to reflect a family’s unique vision. From a classic swing set, like our Cubby’s Fort, to our iconic A-frame Playhouse, our mission is simple: creating spaces where children grow in confidence, imagination, and joy, while parents take pride in the beauty and quality.

Early in my career, I believed the key to success was to avoid mistakes. I quickly learned that setbacks are inevitable and real growth comes from moments that don’t go exactly as planned. I once led a campaign that required a lot of quick adjustments, and while the outcome looked different than we initially imagined, the process taught me more than a smooth launch ever could. I learned to have self-compassion when things aren’t going as expected—to recognize that it’s the outcome of the experience and the lessons gained that truly matter. In many ways, it’s like play: children grow when they try, stumble, and learn from those around them. The same is true in leadership.

At King Swings, we believe play is more than fun—it’s foundational. Our playsets are designed to encourage growth: climbing walls build resilience, tall slides inspire courage, and playhouses spark creativity. Through our Community Cares Initiative, we’ve partnered with organizations like the Eagles Autism Foundation and supported local causes in partnership with the Philadelphia Phillies with swing set donations that bring play to children who need it most. Our All Play line also ensures accessibility, with features like ADA-friendly ramps and communication boards. We also work closely with families looking for playsets to be used as part of their child’s physical therapy. By combining thoughtful design with community impact, we believe children of all abilities and backgrounds should have access to outdoor play.

As a parent of two boys, I’ve seen firsthand how play shapes their total well-being. I’ve watched my kids hesitate at the base of a rock wall, then climb a little higher each day until they reach the top with confidence. Those moments—whether in my own backyard or with the many King Swings families I meet- keep me focused on our goal of fostering active child development. When a child climbs higher than yesterday, leads a game with friends, or imagines a new world in their playhouse, they’re practicing skills that create healthy mental and physical habits. Play teaches problem-solving, cooperation, and resilience, which are lasting benefits that will be beneficial throughout their life.

We recently introduced our Luxe Series, a line of expansive, customizable swing sets for families with the space and imagination to dream without limits. We are excited to launch Holiday 2025 with a Gift With Purchase that promotes a King Swings set as a meaningful family present—made in the USA and built to last for years.

We’re also expanding our commercial playground presence to serve churches, schools, HOAs, and communities seeking high-quality, modern playgrounds.

Design and innovation will always be a part of our DNA. Whether it’s fresh color palettes and new features that spark creativity, we’re always looking to innovate outdoor play for the modern family. We also have some exciting partnerships in the works that tell family stories and create spaces where confidence and connection thrive.

Connect With Janet

www.kingswingsets.com

www.instagram.com/kingswingsplay