It’s every parent’s dream
to get our children everything that we didn’t have when we were growing up. We
want our kids to be happy and to have fun. Sometimes in our excitement we might
not do all of our homework. It’s understandable really. There have been times
that I think I was just as excited as the children were when I had gotten them
a special surprise!
I have always loved those outdoor
playgrounds that you can buy at the home improvement centers or those great
little open air shops on the side of the road. I still do. Here are a few
things to consider when the time comes to surprise your little ones. If you
already have some of this equipment for the kiddies you might want to check it
out as well if you haven’t done so already.
Kids Fall
Naturally your little one
is going to take a spill every once in a while, It’s all part of being a kid.
One thing that many parents fail to consider when buying playground equipment
is what type of surface it will be sitting on. Sure, I’ve seen them set up on
grass many times but I’ve also seen kiddy playgrounds set up on asphalt or
concrete.
It’s OK if this is the
only place that you have to place the equipment but why not provide a soft
landing spot for the children as well? Wood chips are an excellent material to
put over a hard surface to provide at least some cushion, foam is even better.
If cost is a factor than the wood chips are much better than nothing. Just be
sure that the toddlers don’t put them in their mouths.
Check for Stability
Playground equipment
requires periodic maintenance just the same as anything else. Bolts become
loose, nails rust or may be sticking out and wood can rot. Take the time to
inspect the equipment that your children are playing on to be sure that it is
in good condition. If they like to visit a local school or park playground
check it out as well. If repairs are needed be sure to inform the proper
person(s) to have it fixed.
Kids Love to Climb
Use common sense when allowing
the kids to play. Don’t allow them to climb higher than you are comfortable
with, or better yet, higher than you want them to fall. As always, be certain
that the equipment that they are climbing on is sturdy and will not break or
move in any way. The overwhelming majority of playground injuries are a direct
result of falling. This is one situation where close supervision is always required.
Swings
Swings are the one thing
on a playground that can hurt someone that is not using it. It happened to me when I was a child. I received a
good swift kick to the back of my head because I walked too close to the
swings. Make sure that your children give a wide birth to the swings and if
they are the one using it be sure to check the chains, rope or cord that is
attached. Obviously a lose fitting or frayed cord or rope is completely
unacceptable. Also take the time to check the fittings, bolts, screws, everything. If you’re not 100% sure than
don’t allow your child to use the swing. There’s plenty else to enjoy.
The #1 Most Forgotten Concern
Is the play area fenced
in? It should be. Children tend to wander when they play and it is always
better if they are within a contained area. Cars, stray animals and strangers belong
on the other side of the fence. Have you ever had to slam on the brakes in your
car near a play area because a child was chasing a ball? I have and I can tell
you it’s a heart-stopping experience.
Naturally there is nothing
than can replace competent adult supervision but following these steps should
go a long way to ensure that your child can safely enjoy that new swing set,
sliding board or “Jungle Jim”!
No comments:
Post a Comment