Inspecting Playground Equipment

Playing outdoors is not just great fun, but it is also a very healthy activity. However, it is important to make sure that equipment on the playground is safe for preschoolers.  

Ideally, for preschoolers (aged 2 – 6) swings should not be made of wood or other hard material. Rubber or plastic are the best type of material for swings for this age group.

 

As a rule preschoolers should not stand or sit near to a swing that is being used. Standing close to one is asking for trouble as accidents can and do happen.

 

Although they may think it is great fun to kneel or stand, preschoolers should always sit when using a swing. 

Children should always slide down feet first when using a slide. They should also sit up while sliding down. Children should slide down one at a time and not in groups.

 

Ideally, for slides and jungle gyms used by preschoolers there should be a cushion of leaves, sand or safety mats placed below in case a child falls from the top. 

Once they are being used by preschoolers, jungle gyms should be strong and not too high so that children are not in danger of falling from too great a height. Like other playground material wood is not an ideal material since splinters may cause injury to fingers. 

Preferably preschoolers should not be dressed in very loose clothing, or clothing that has strings or straps when playing on most playground equipment. Straps and strings can get caught in the most unexpected places and result in accidents.

 

 

Finally, there is no substitution for adult supervision at the playground. No preschooler should be allowed on a playground without a responsible adult supervising the activities to ensure that everyone has fun and remains safe while doing so.