outdoor games for kids

Playground rules are important for the safety of children and parents as well as to aid the upkeep of playground equipment. Practicing safety rules is imperative, and they must be followed at all times. Following the rules shows respect for others and helps prevent injuries.

General Playground Rules

• Older children should always be aware of younger children. No running on equipment; save running for open fields where there are less dangers.

  Keep hands, feet and toys to yourself to prevent injuries. No hitting, play fighting or pushing.

  Using appropriate language is essential. Children pick up new words easily, and a playground should be a place to learn positive things. Do not call others bad names.

  Do not bring fake weapons of any kind, including toy guns, knives and bow and arrows.

  No bicycles, skates or skateboards are allowed on the equipment. Using toys with wheels on equipment can be dangerous.

  Check age suggestions for playground equipment. Some parks now have areas designated for children 2-5 years old and older than 5 years.

  If the playground you visit is surrounded by a fence, lock the gate after entering and exiting. The fence will help children from wandering off and can be especially useful for mother's of toddlers.outdoor play structures

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  Rules for Specific Equipment

  • Stay away from swings in use. Those using the swings might not see children in front of or behind the swing and could easily hurt someone walking too close. Sit on your bottom in the swing seat and hold the swing's handles. Do not stand on swings. When finished, slowly come to a stop. Do not jump off or flip off.

    If babies are using a baby swing, parents need to stay within arm's reach of the child. Babies are unpredictable and could decide they're done at any time. According to SafeKids.org, always strap a baby into a swing, if equipped (reference 1).

    Slides are to be used sitting on your bottom, facing forward with your feet in front of you. Going head first, backward, sideways or on your stomach could cause injury.

    One person at a time should use the monkey bars. No pushing or shoving anyone using the monkey bars; this could cause a fall. Do not hang upside down off of the monkey bars. Do not attempt to get on top of the monkey bars.

    Climb rock-climbing walls carefully with appropriate shoes, preferably sneakers. Once you have reached the top, carefully climb back down. Do not jump or let go from the top. Wait your turn and do not push or shove anyone using this equipment.

    Do not block others from crawling through tunnels or force anyone to go through a tunnel. Do not climb on top of tunnels.

    Only one person at a time should use a fire pole. No pushing or shoving is allowed. Wait patiently for a turn.outdoor play structures

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