Playgrounds are a great place for kids to exercise and socialize throughout the summer, but each year emergency rooms treat more than 200,000 children ages 14 and younger for playground injuries. These injuries include anything from broken bones to concussion to internal bleeding, but there is no need to keep your child away from playgrounds! Take the following precautions when allowing children to “monkey around”:• Check to make sure the surface under the playground is safe and soft (wood chips and sand are better than dirt/grass)• Children should always have adult supervision on the playground• Make sure your child plays on the appropriate section of the playground for their age – younger kids shouldn’t play on sections for older children because the distances and proportions are different• Ensure children use equipment properly – slide feet first, do not stand on swings, etc.• Check playground equipment in the summertime, as metal surfaces may be hot
If your child does fall, be sure to watch for signs of a concussion and head to the emergency room if necessary. Play is an important part of physical, social, intellectual, and emotional development for children. By following these safety tips, you’ll ensure they can play as safely as possible!