Introduction
Introduction
Why is Playground Supervision Important? Studies have shown that working as a group to learn about playground supervision creates strong, active supervision, which in turn can reduce the number of playground injuries (National Program for Playground Safety). However, we cannot assume that everyone knows how to properly supervise children on a playground. Improper or lack of supervision knowledge can negatively impact not only children’s safety but also their play experiences. A well-prepared play supervisor should know how to promote healthy, active, challenging play without compromising safety.
How and Why Children are Injured on Playgrounds A playground supervisor can make the playground safer simply by having an understanding of how and why children are injured on playgrounds. Children are injured on playgrounds for various reasons. In no way does this program guide include a comprehensive listing of possible hazards or injuries, but it does outline some of the potential hazards. Through observation, experience, and discussion with other playground supervisors, you will begin to recognize play patterns that could lead to injury.
On the playground, pay close attention to the following: Children getting on and off of play equipment Children are more likely to experience challenges as they begin and end an activity. Young children, who may not have fully developed motor skills • Children should not be allowed to lift another child onto overhead climbers. • Young children may be more susceptible to falls because they are still developing spatial awareness skills. Supervise younger children closely when they attempt to use upper body equipment like overhead ladders (monkey bars) where the child is supporting their full body weight with their hands. Children displaying lack of caution • Nearly 1/3 of playground injuries are self inflicted. • Teach children to be cautious as they move through the play environment. Discourage running on and around the playground equipment. Overcrowding on play activities, such as slide entrances • Be aware of overcrowding especially in the first few minutes of recess as children often rush to their favorite activities. If a component is frequently overcrowded due to its popularity, consider developing guidelines that ensure that all children have a chance to use the equipment.
Most playground injuries are minor bumps, bruises, cuts, and scratches; unfortunately, sometimes playground injuries can be more serious. However, by providing information and education about proper playground supervision, we may reduce the severity and number of injuries that occur on the playground while also increasing play value. The play environment and the needs of the children can change quickly; in order to remain up-to-date, communicate continuously with your school or agency’s administration. Playground supervisors can play a vital role in ensuring that playground needs are addressed proactively. A means of communicating
changes to procedures should be established to make certain that all involved in playground supervision receive the same information. It is a good idea to include staff members in the playground supervision discussion even if they are not directly responsible for playground duties. They may be needed to step into the playground supervision role during a supervisor’s absence or in an emergency, or they may wish to volunteer for this position in the future. Also, providing playground supervision information to a broader group can help promote the value of play throughout the school or agency.
Statistics show that the greatest number of playground injuries in a school setting occur during the first few months of the new school year. The age range most frequently injured during this time are preschool and kindergarten children. This is most likely a result of not being familiar with the equipment and not having the skills necessary to play on the equipment. At the beginning of a new school year teachers and/or playground supervisors should take classes out to the playground with the goal of familiarizing the children with the equipment and to see their capabilities before they are thrown into the mix of multiple classrooms playing at once.
• 200,000 children visit the emergency room each year due to injuries sustained on the playground (Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2006) • 80% of elementary school injuries every school year happen on the playground (Thompson & Bruya, 1995) • 84% of all playground accidents could be avoided through two activities: adult supervision and proper playground maintenance (National Recreation and Park Association)
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Preserving the Play Environment • Promoting the Value of Play • Protecting Children
Preserving the Play Environment • Promoting the Value of Play • Protecting Children
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