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No Monkeying Around: 4 Ways to Avoid Playground Injuries

Playgrounds are great for kids: All that swinging, running, jumping, sliding and climbing helps them burn off energy, get their bodies moving and learn social skills.

But they can also be an easy way for kids to get hurt. In fact, about 200,000 kids wind up in the emergency department every year because of an injury they got on a playground at school, the park or even at home.

Fortunately, there are four simple things parents and caregivers can do to help reduce the risk of injury, and boost all the benefits that can happen at the park:

1. Pick a playground that’s appropriate for your child’s age and development.

Most playground equipment has a sticker, label or sign that gives parents and caregivers an age range for kids playing on the play set. Use those guidelines to make sure your child is using equipment that’s right for them. That includes making sure small children aren’t using slides and ladders too big for them, and also keeping big kids off equipment designed for toddlers and preschoolers.

2. Make sure playgrounds are well maintained and have a soft surface.

Before letting kids loose, walk through the playground and take a quick look at slides, swings and ladders. Does everything look secure and well maintained? If your playground has a lot of rust and worn-out equipment, it’s time to find a new park.

Also, be sure your favorite park has an impact-absorbing surface that will help soften any falls. That includes mulch, wood chips, rubber chips, rubber mats or even sand. Skip any park with grass, concrete or asphalt as it could result in serious injury if your child falls.

3. Establish rules before heading out.

Make sure your child knows the rules of the playground. That should include no shoving or pushing, or climbing on equipment that isn’t supposed to be climbed on (like the outside of slides or tunnels). Establishing clear rules can even help keep your child safe when you’re not there to supervise, including when they are at school or with a friend.

4. Supervise your child.

It’s all too easy to get distracted by our phones when we’re out at the playground. But instead of getting lost in the digital space, try instead to enjoy the physical space you’re in. Keep an eye on your child as he or she tries out new things and proudly shouts for you to watch their latest feat.

There’s no need for you to be a passive observer, either. Walk laps around the playground while you watch your children, or join in on their games. It’s a great way to show them that physical activity is fun and important to you, too.

Tanner Healthcare for Children, a Tanner Medical Group practice, is located in Carrollton. For more information, visit TannerHealthcareForChildren.org or call 770-834-0606.

Children's Health Care




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