outdoor slides

Hazards Outside on the Playground

An outdoor play space can help preschoolers develop gross motor skills, get social and spend time in nature. But it also has plenty of safety hazards. Teachers and support staff need to provide constant supervision and regularly inspect the equipment for wear and tear. Adult-to-child ratios may differ based on individual state licensing regulations, but one staff member for every eight to 10 children ages 3 through 5 is typical. Even if there are fewer than 10 children on the playground, at least two adults should supervise outdoor play. Staff should look for hazards such as bolts or nails that are sticking out of playground equipment. These could cut a child or cause a fall by snagging loose clothing. Other equipment risks include loose bolts and fasteners, open "S" hooks and rusted chains on swings. These may cause swings to fall or links to break. There also are some types of equipment that children shouldn't play on outside. For example, monkey bars and jungle gyms present a serious fall risk, as do trampolines.  outdoor play equipment