Summer is nearly upon us and that means a lot more of the kids and a lot less for them to do! Playgrounds are the go-to place for moms and kids alike so it's important to remember "safety first" when it comes to playing at your local playground. Moms are safety experts when it comes to their kids yet it's easy to overlook the little things when in familiar surroundings like a playground. Take this refresher course and be sure your kids are extra safe this summer and all year around.
1. Talk with your kids and teach them that pushing, shoving, crowding is never allowed.
2. Keep big kids off smaller equipment and smaller kids off bigger equipment. Age appropriate use of playground equipment is important and the guidelines are set for the safety of all who use them.
3. We know it's summer and kids aren't as likely to be wearing jackets but it's always a good reminder: REMEMBER to remove hood and neck drawstrings from your child's jackets and sweaters. Leave toys and purses with mom and remove any loose items from around neck and head area. (necklaces, scarves, etc.)
4. Remember that sun is hot! No playground equipment is exempt from the heat of the sun. Check all playground equipment with the palm of your hand before playing. Equipment can get blistering hot.
5. Always use sunscreen. Keep a bottle of sunscreen in your car. Forgetting sunscreen is like forgetting your seatbelt. It's just not worth the risk.
6. Always insist that kids wear comfortable but safe shoes, no matter what.
7. Hold on to handrails while climbing stairs. Don't push in front of other kids.
8. On slides, slide down, don't climb up, and bottom first.
9. Do not climb, walk or scale equipment support poles or beams. Play properly.
10. Swing sitting down only and teach kids to be careful walking in front of and behind swings.
11. Be courteous! Smaller kids can't run as fast or get out of the way as quick. Protect little ones from getting hurt.
These tips can help keep your child (and others) safe on the playground all summer long. Talk with kids about safety and being courteous regularly and you're sure to have a fun time at your local playground...all summer long!
