A playground is a wonderful place for kids to have fun, socialize with friends, and enjoy the fresh air. Unfortunately, equipment like jungle gyms, swings, and slides can result in physical injuries without the proper safety precautions. The day care center staff of New York’s Mendon Child Care Center offer the following advice to keep your kid’s playground time accident-free.

How Kids Can Stay Safe at the Playground

Obey The Rules

Children should never engage in rough behavior on playground equipment. This includes no pushing or kicking. Diligent day care center staffers encourage kids to take turns and be mindful of others waiting in line. They also enforce time limits so everybody gets a chance to play, minimizing fights.

Use Equipment Properly

Kids like to test limits, so strongly discourage improper use of play equipment. For instance, they should only go down the slide feet first. When swinging, advise them to come to a complete stop before exiting and never to jump off in midair. Explain calmly why these rules are in place.

Have an Adult Present

Responsible adults should always monitor behavior at the playground. Before kids enter, supervisors should check the equipment for signs of damage and observe any potential dangers, like water puddles or overheated equipment. Day care center staffers and other attendees should keep their eyes and ears open and be ready to intervene in an accident.

Enforce the Rules Strictly

Kids must know the rules are there to keep everyone safe and that there are consequences to bad behavior. Institute an enforcement system, gradually escalating from a verbal warning to a time-out. Knowing their actions can end play time will help kids engage in safe behavior.

For children, a playground is a world of exploration and fun. For the adults, it’s important to keep them safe while on their imaginary excursions. Mendon Child Care Center is 100% committed to the safety and well-being of all students. The professional and compassionate day care center staff wants children to have joyous and educational experiences. Call (585) 624-2337 to inquire about their programs or visit the website for extensive information about services, including pre-K education.