Playing Safely On Swing Sets Olathe KS Youngsters Love

Posted by Unknown on 1:37 AM with No comments
By Carl Sanders


Getting children away from video games and handheld devices is very important, and the younger they are the more important it is. Installing playground equipment in the backyard is a great way to encourage children to head outdoors, but it can be dangerous unless some rules are followed by both adults and kids. Playing safely on swing sets Olathe KS youngsters love should be a good experience, not an excuse to visit the local emergency room.

Parents should not assume that playground equipment is safe for use without supervision. Even older children can get into trouble if they don't follow basic rules. You might think you have everything under control because you can see what is going on outside through an interior window. You may be able to see what is going on, but getting to a young child before something happens is a different story.

Where you decide to install the equipment can make the difference between a fall that only causes a bump and tears and one that breaks bones. Most parents know putting up sets on asphalt or other unyielding surfaces is a bad idea, but many don't consider the hazards of installing swings over grass and dirt. Placing rubber mats, mulch, wood chips, and sand under equipment is safer.

The equipment design you choose is important. You need to consider the age and ability of the children you are targeting. Sets without bucket seats are not appropriate for small children. Older children should not play on bucket seats, and the younger and older seats need to be separated from each other.

Teaching children safety rules and enforcing them is important to keep everyone safe. It is not difficult to impose certain guidelines, especially when several children are playing together. Kids should learn right away not to walk in front or behind other children who are swinging. If the one on the swings decides to jump, he or she needs to look first to make sure no one is in the way.

Some rules are specific to swings, and all children should understand what they are. Standing or kneeling on the seats and climbing on the chains is not allowed. You can't stand or walk too close to a swinging seat. The seats on most swings are built for one person to use at a time, not for as many as can be crowded onto one.

Some sets come with slides, and slides come with their own rules. Climbing up the slide to slide back down is not acceptable. This is what the steps are for. Sliding face down is not a good idea and can cause serious facial burns. More than one at a time on the slide should not be allowed.

As a parent, it is your responsibility to make sure backyard play equipment is in good working order. You need to routinely check the bolts, screws and other metals to make sure they are not exposed.

Most kids like to play outside, and the activity is very good for them. Keeping them safe is the responsibility of supervising adults and should be taken very seriously.




About the Author: