Playgrounds are essential for a child’s growth, as one of the few ways that they can have fun while developing various essential skills. They learn to build their social skills as they make new friends and improve their motor skills as they use the playground facilities.
That’s why the playground must have a play space design that is not only fun for the children but also safe for continuous use over time. Playgrounds should be free of hazards, such as corrosion and slipperiness, that are a common cause of injuries.
There are a couple more features a good playground design should have. We will explore a few essential ones below.
Safe Terrain
While most playgrounds are flat and even to accommodate various playground structures, some conform to the natural terrain to entice children to run around and climb. However, playgrounds that have this kind of floor should be modified to reduce tripping and falls.
Elevated grounds should be covered with non-slip material to prevent slippage, especially when wet. Equipment should also be surrounded by railings that have gaps that are too small to allow children to slip through. Any dips in the area should be regularly kept free of water, particularly after rain.
Free from Hazards
Many possible hazards can be found in playgrounds. Play equipment can be faulty due to constant use or corrosion. There can be a lot of debris, such as tiny stones and glass shards, scattered from running around.
Proper equipment maintenance should be practiced to reduce accidents from faulty equipment. Schedule a routine checkup at least every week or even more frequently if the playground is used often. Make sure to keep the floor clean of dangerous debris.
Proper Sun Exposure
Most playgrounds don’t have shelter from the sun, which causes children to be exposed to harmful UV rays. It also puts them at the risk of overheating and getting dehydrated. The installation of shade in playgrounds should be considered by property managers, as it has a lot of benefits.
It keeps the playground a cool area to play in and prevents children from getting exposed to the heat and becoming tired immediately. It also increases playground equipment life by reducing its exposure to the elements. In addition, any exposed metal parts won’t become hot to the touch and burn children who touch it.
Separate Age Groups
It is important to have separate areas for different age groups, as they have different ways of playing. Toddlers will need to have continuous adult supervision, as they are most prone to harm. Small children are more independent and will now play various games with their peers.
Most children, however, can’t keep track of what happens in their environment and will mostly be focused on themselves. That is why separating them by age groups is important. If left unattended, small children who run around might bump into unaware toddlers and cause minor accidents.
These are just a few of the essential factors playgrounds should have to keep children safe. In following these guidelines, any playground can foster a fun learning environment for the children while keeping accidents to a minimum.
