PLAY

P is for Place

Children need a place to play. “Play is a powerful medium for children’s growth and development, and the outdoor play space can be used to promote exploration, physical activity, and positive social interactions”(Theemes, 1999, preface). Children want a place where they can be with other children or daydream in quiet solitude. Children want a place where they can find their limits and push past them while feeling a sense of security-well cared for and protected. (Theemes, 1999, p.4) Whether it is a park, play ground or your own back yard, the play area needs to be safe and supervised. Supervision is the key to preventing injuries. The equipment must be age and size appropriate for your child. Walk through the play area before your child plays to see if there is adequate impact-absorbing surfacing in the fall zones surrounding the play equipment, the equipment has been properly maintained, and look for other possible safety hazards. For more information on play ground safety please see National Program for Playground Safety www.playgroundsafety.org

For more information about your area contact:
City or County Offices
Chamber of Commerce
Visitor's Center

P is for Place

Links for Play