As parents and caregivers, it’s important to keep playground safety in mind to ensure that kids can enjoy the playground while minimizing the risk of injury. Did you know that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 200,000 children in the United States are treated in the emergency department each year for playground-related injuries? This highlights the importance of being proactive and taking steps to ensure children’s safety while they’re at play.

As the school year starts back up, it’s important for parents, students, and educators to take the necessary steps to ensure a safe and successful school year. We have compiled a list of 10 helpful tips for you and your family to keep in mind as you navigate the playground. From preparing emergency plans to practicing good hygiene, these helpful tips will help ensure a smooth and safe return to the playground.

  1. Supervision is key when it comes to playground safety. Children, especially younger ones, may not fully understand the risks associated with playground equipment and may need adult supervision to stay safe. This means monitoring them closely and being nearby in case of an emergency.
  2. Checking the playground equipment is important to make sure it’s in good condition and free of hazards. This includes looking for missing or broken parts, sharp edges, rust, and other issues that could cause injury. Parents and caregivers should also check the playground equipment regularly for any wear and tear or damage.
  3. Using appropriate playgrounds is essential for children’s safety. Different age groups have different abilities and require different types of playground equipment. Parents and caregivers should choose playgrounds that are appropriate for the ages of the children who will be using them.
  4. The surface of the playground is important for cushioning falls and reducing the risk of injury. Soft surfaces such as wood chips, mulch, or rubber are the best options. Parents and caregivers should look for playgrounds with these types of surfaces and avoid those with hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt.
  5. Teaching playground rules to children is important to ensure they understand how to use the equipment safely. Rules such as no pushing or shoving, and no climbing on the equipment should be explained clearly. Parents and caregivers should also make sure children understand the importance of following these rules.
  6. Dressing for safety is important to ensure children are protected while playing on the playground. This includes avoiding loose or baggy clothing that could get caught on equipment. Parents and caregivers should also make sure children are wearing appropriate shoes for the playground surface.
  7. Knowing the signs of heat stroke is important for keeping children safe on hot days. Parents and caregivers should look for signs such as dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating, and make sure children stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shade.
  8. Avoiding overcrowded playgrounds is important to ensure children have enough space to play safely. Overcrowded playgrounds can increase the risk of accidents and injuries, so parents and caregivers should look for playgrounds that are less busy.
  9. Keeping an eye out for equipment that’s too hot to touch is important to prevent burns. Metal playground equipment can get very hot in the sun, so parents and caregivers should check the temperature before allowing children to play on it.
  10. Being prepared for emergencies is important to ensure children receive prompt medical attention in case of an accident. Parents and caregivers should know where the nearest phone is and how

In conclusion, playground safety is essential for children to enjoy the playground without getting hurt. Parents, caregivers and educators should keep an eye on the children and take the necessary precautions to minimize the risk of injuries. By following these 10 tips, you can make sure your child is safe on the playground and help them to have a fun and enjoyable experience. It’s important to keep in mind that playground safety is a shared responsibility and with everyone’s cooperation and awareness, we can create a safe playground environment for all children.