Inclusion Matters Creating Safe Play Areas
May 22, 2023
Join Sarah Hawley, a Child Care Health Consultant and Public Health Nurse, as she shares her expertise on creating safe play environments for children. She discusses the importance of regular safety checks and the role of adult supervision to prevent accidents in play spaces. Sarah highlights the need for appropriate staff-to-child ratios and how staffing shortages can impact child safety. Additionally, she offers essential tips on first aid supplies for playgrounds, ensuring caregivers are prepared for minor injuries during playtime.
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Winter's Impact On Play Safety
- Minnesota winters delay outdoor playtime until spring, increasing common injuries like skinned knees.
- Transitioning kids from snow gear to pavement requires adjusted safety checks to prevent accidents.
Daily Safety Checks Essential
- Do daily safety checks of both indoor and outdoor play areas each morning before children arrive.
- Remove hazards like sand on pavements, broken toys, and loose bolts promptly to prevent injuries.
Have A Dedicated Play Space Scout
- Assign one staff member to consistently inspect play areas for hazards to catch subtle changes.
- For shared or public playgrounds, plan for a scout to scan for litter, animal feces, or broken glass daily.