When you head out to the playground, take charge of playground safety by being proactive. Here are some tips that will help create a safe and enjoyable environment.

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The playground is an exciting play area for kids of all ages, whether it's a large community space filled with colorful equipment, or a small backyard swing set.  

It goes without saying that adults must supervise little ones while allowing them freedom to run, explore, play and socialize outside. Naturally, everyone wants to have fun and be safe at the playground, so it's important for kids to adopt good habits around play equipment.

Parents and teachers can teach a few basic rules for using playground apparatus. They can also instill awareness of others in the play space.

Whether you play in your back yard, or in a public park, kids need rules to stay safe while having fun and exploring their surroundings.

Teaching playground safety 

Outdoor play has many benefits for kids as well as grownups! It provides exercise and fresh air, interaction with nature, and opportunities to explore new experiences.

In order to avoid frustrations and possible accidents, it is beneficial for kids to be equipped with the proper tools for playing safely at the playground. One way to empower kids is to demonstrate safe practices for the use of playground equipment.

Repetition and modeling will help instill rules of safety as part of kids everyday play. Here are a few steps to take to show kids how to play safely.

Concentrate on a few basic rules for using playground equipment.

1. Walk at a safe distance around the swings when they are in use.

Lead the children through a practice route, from one piece of equipment to another.

2. Sit properly on the swing and slide.

Sit, don't stand, on swing seat.

Sit, don't stand, at top of slide.

Hold the hand rail when climbing the slide.

3. Grasp climbing apparatus with both hands.

Use two hands to comfortably climb ladders and other equipment. Using two hands rule can also apply to swing ropes or chains, and seesaw handles.

4. Play on equipment you can reach.

Public playgrounds may have options available for a wide range of kids sizes and ages. Set limits that your are comfortable with when supervising a group of children.

5. Play games at a safe distance from playground equipment.

Separate playground area into spaces according to activities. Designate areas for playing tag, throwing balls, or flying kites that are a safe distance from swings and slides.

6. Take turns.

The playground presents opportunities for sharing as well as for learning to "wait your turn".

Is someone already waiting for a swing? 

Let's play in the sandbox until a swing is free.

Reinforce rules occasionally with a few simple instructions.

• Hold onto handrails with both hands.
  
  
• Make sure the bottom of the slide is clear before you slide down.
  
  
• Slide down feet first.
  
  
• Walk a safe distance behind swings in use.
  
  
• Stay clear of the child above you on climbing equipment.

Use clean, safe play areas.

As parents and care givers, it is our job to make sure a play area is suitable, whether in public spaces or in our own backyards. We can do this by ensuring:

• equipment is maintained
  
  
• the area is free of debris or garbage
  
  
• play structures are appropriate for the age of the children in our care. 

Public spaces will have additional regulatory conditions such as ground surfaces that meet safety guidelines.

We must also make sure kids are not wearing loose clothing, belts, scarves, or other accessories that might tangle in playground equipment.

And last, but not least, wash hands after play time before enjoying snacks.

Playground best practices

Kids can share and play in positive ways by adopting good habits around play equipment. We can help kids learn to routinely play safely with a few simple steps.

Keep rules to a minimum.

Role play the safety measure you want the children to learn.

Talk about safety at home or in the classroom.

Play safely, and have fun at the playground today!

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