Playground Safety: Keeping Kids Safe While They Play

The Importance of Play — and Its Risks

Outdoor play on playgrounds builds strength, coordination, social skills, and confidence. But playgrounds are also where many childhood injuries occur, mostly from falls. Most injuries are preventable with proper equipment, surfaces, and supervision.

What to Look for Before Your Child Plays

• Surface: Safe playgrounds have impact-absorbing surfaces — wood chips, rubber mulch, or poured rubber — at least 12 inches deep and extending 6 feet beyond equipment.
• Age-appropriate equipment: Most playgrounds designate areas for ages 2–5 and 5–12. Use the right section.
• No hazards: Check for broken equipment, exposed bolts, sharp edges, or openings between 3.5 and 9 inches (head entrapment risk).
• Shade: Metal slides and dark surfaces get extremely hot in summer — test before your child uses them.

The Most Common Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Falls from climbing equipment cause the majority of serious injuries. Teach children to hold on with both hands and to come down slides feet-first and one at a time. Supervise closely on monkey bars — these cause the most broken arms.

Swing Safety

Keep young children in bucket swings until they can hold on independently. Teach children to stay clear of moving swings. Never push a swing while facing it — walk to the side.

Clothing Considerations

Remove drawstring hoodies and scarves before playground use — these can catch on equipment and cause strangulation. Ensure shoelaces are tied. Helmets are not recommended on playgrounds, as they can get caught in equipment.

Supervision Guidelines by Age

Children under 5 need close, hands-on supervision. Ages 5–7 need watchful nearby supervision. Older children can play more independently but still benefit from an adult being present. Set clear boundaries about where they can go.