Teach Your Child Playground Safety

It's best to start teaching children about playground safety as early as possible. Before you head to the playground, go over a playground safety checklist with your little one. Remind them to use the equipment as intended, take turns, and keep an eye out for other children.  If you can, modeling what to do at the playground is another excellent technique to teach children. Play with your child by holding onto the rails of playground equipment, sliding down a slide, feet first, and safely gripping the handles of a see-saw as you go up and down. 

Playground Safety Checklist 

1. Follow Playground Rules 

First and foremost, make sure the equipment your child is using is suitable for their age. They should usually wait until they are slightly older before using that equipment if they are unable to effectively climb stairs or reach the ground on a swing.   Explain the significance of utilizing equipment correctly as well. For example, a youngster who is hanging upside-down on the monkey bars runs the risk of suffering a major injury if they fall. Experimenting may be enjoyable, but it's best to be cautious. 

2. Be Mindful of Surroundings 

Toddlers are so eager to run about the playground that they frequently neglect to pay attention to their surroundings. Instruct your child to always keep their eyes attentive and their heads up while exploring the park. A basic principle to keep in mind is to walk a few feet away from swings and slides rather than directly in front of them. When you move about, keep an eye out for other children and adults. 

3. Avoid Dirty or Wet Equipment 

When a downpour ends and the sun begins to shine, it might be tempting to take the children to the park. Even if your child walks slowly across wet playground equipment, it can still be dangerous. If you need to go to the playground, make sure your child understands that they should only play on dry areas and carry many towels to clean up an area. 

4. Wear Proper Clothes Outside 

Young children should not be dressed in anything that might injure them or catch on playground equipment. A pair of sweatpants is ideal for a park excursion since they provide additional protection from bumps and falls. When utilizing slides, swings, or other equipment, keep an eye out for any straps, buttons, or strings that can grab. Before they play, ask them to take off any jewelry, such as necklaces and earrings. 

5. Games to be Played Away from Equipment 

At the park, toddlers enjoy playing games like tag, hopscotch, and hide-and-seek. However, mishaps may occur for them or other children when they play on or close to playground equipment. Remind children to play on the ground, ideally in an area of the park away from play equipment, and to keep an eye out for other children. 

Play With Safety and Responsibility 

The aforementioned playground safety checklist outlines straightforward, practical guidelines to keep your child and others safe at the park. It is equally crucial for adults to keep an eye on their toddlers as well. Teach children to stay in your line of sight and to avoid talking to strangers unless you are with them. When you and your child participate, the playground can be a pleasant and safe place to be. 

Follow Dibber International Preschool & Nurseries for more such insightful blogs!