Sensible Safe Play A Practical and Educational Interpretation

Sensible Safe Play A Practical and Educational Interpretation
of the North Carolina Child Care Commission’s Permanent Playground Rules This playground safety training is a practical and educational interpretation of the North Carolina Child Care Commission’s permanent playground rules. The four playground safety components within the rules include: (1) Providing a safe environment for children as outlined in rules and of the safety requirements for child care centers; (2) A required four hour safety training course for child care directors and one other employee of licensed child care programs as outlined in rules .0705; (3) Required monthly inspection reports from rules .0605; and (4) Reporting all accidents and injuries which occur on the playground required in rule

Training Requirements
For centers serving less than 30 children, one staff member must complete Playground Safety training within 6 months of hire For centers serving 30 or more children, the Center Director and one other staff member must complete Playground Safety training within 6 months of hire As outlined by the rule, staff are required to complete the four hour safety training course but this varies based upon center size. For centers serving less than 30 children, one staff member must complete the training within 6 months of hire. For centers serving 30 or more children, the Center Director and one other staff member must complete the training within 6 months of hire.

Setting the Scene I’d like for us to begin this session on playground safety by talking about play itself-the nature of what children do on the playground. For example, children jump while they play; children smile while they play. Trainer Sidebar: Ask the participants what words or phrases describe what children do while they play. Depending on the group size, you may have time to go around the room and ask each participant for a word or phrase. We could probably go on for the rest of the day talking about words and phrases that describe the wonderful ways that children play, but let’s stop here. You’ve given me a very good idea of how children play. All of these words and phrases are just some of the ways in which children learn and develop through play. The bottom line is this: playgrounds are a learning environment for kids. Every day at your child care center, you provide a place for this development to occur and you encourage this growth to happen. The words and phrases that we have just discussed are the very reasons that playgrounds were first developed in the United States back in the late 1800's.

The Difference Between Risk and Hazard
a RISK contains a decision or judgment a HAZARD cannot be seen by a child and therefore cannot be judged A risk contains a decision or judgment. A hazard cannot be seen by a child and therefore cannot be judged. For example, when we drive a car, we decide that a left hand turn across traffic can be made safely by making a judgment of the distance and speed of the oncoming cars. Likewise while swinging, children decide to jump off and out because they have judged themselves not too high above the ground to hurt themselves when they land. Adults say that a blind corner is a driving hazard because we cannot judge if and how fast other traffic is approaching. A child could fall because a worn out S-hook from the swing breaks with the stress of the swinging motion. In this situation, there was no judgment involved because the child could not see or evaluate the condition of the S-hook. Another example to illustrate these points would be a child using an overhead climber. The child makes a decision to move across the climber which is a risk. However, the hazard, not seen by the child would be the type of surfacing below the overhead climber. Children must take risks as part of the playing and learning process. Our goal is to remove the hazards. Risk taking during play is part of the learning process! A playground that has eliminated all elements of risk will not be a successful one. In fact, this playground can probably only exist in theory. What we want to do in offering a “safe play environment” is to remove the hazards.

Why All the Fuss? Have any of you in the audience been injured while playing on a playground? I’m sure most of us can answer this question with a yes! As professionals we should strive to provide a safe playground environment to help minimize these injuries.

Why All the Fuss? There are three reasons why a child care provider should provide a safe playground environment: 1 - It is morally the right thing to do 2 - It is backed by child care requirements 3 - Negligence could result in liability claims There are three reasons why a child care provider should provide a safe playground environment. (1) It’s the morally right thing to do. The child is dependent on you. The child’s parent or guardian has entrusted a child to your care. The profession of child care calls on you to provide a hazard-free environment for our children so that they have an equal opportunity to learn and grow in a healthy and promising manner. The North Carolina Child Care Rule outlines general safety requirements and condition of outdoor play equipment; (2) It is backed by legislation. The North Carolina Child Care Commission initially adopted these rules in October 1998, and they are currently enforced by the NC Division of Child Development (NCDCD); and (3) Negligence could result in liability claims. People are increasingly using the court system to decide whether a wrongdoing charge is justified. “Taking someone to court” is now the norm. A child care provider who wants to stay in business will take a proactive stance in preventing, handling, and documenting all injuries.

Why All the Fuss? It is your obligation as child care providers to supply a physically and emotionally safe environment for the children in your care On the playground, a safe environment is one where the hazards are removed or addressed It is your obligation as child care providers to supply a physically and emotionally safe environment for the children in your care. Remember, on the playground, a safe environment is one where the hazards are removed or addressed.

National Trends 1988 CPSC Data 1994 CPSC Data 1999 CPSC Data
More than 150,000 playground related injuries per year A playground related injury = an emergency room visit 1994 CPSC Data More than 200,000 playground related injuries Estimate of 17 playground related deaths per year 1999 CPSC Data More than 205,000 playground related injuries Fractures were the most commonly reported injury How safe are our playgrounds? The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) collected data from emergency room hospital visits across the country in 1988, 1994, and Unfortunately, more than 205,000 playground related injuries were reported in Some experts have speculated that this rise in injuries is not due to less safe playgrounds but better reporting and more sites being included in the data base. Remember these data refer to emergency room visits only. They do not account for all the bumps, bruises, and cuts that occur on a playground.

North Carolina Injuries
2002 Calendar Year 1,388 injuries occurred at child care centers that required medical attention Of these injuries, 37.5 percent or 521 injuries occurred on the playground How many injuries are occurring on playgrounds at North Carolina child care centers? According to the 2002 calendar year statistics child care staff supplied to the NCDCD, 1,388 injuries were reported that required medical attention. Of these injuries, 37.5 percent or 521 injuries occurred on the playground.

Number of Injuries by Age Group
What is the breakdown of the 521 injuries reported by age group? Infants had 104 injuries or 20 percent of the total; toddlers had 101 injuries or 20 percent of the total; preschoolers had 179 injuries or 34 percent of the total; school age had 57 injuries or 11 percent of the total; and unknowns had 80 injuries or 15 percent of the total.

Cause of Injuries When looking at the cause of injuries, 218 injuries (42 percent) were due to hits and bumps; 144 injuries (28 percent) were due to falls from heights; and 159 injuries (30 percent) were due to other causes.

Equipment Associated with Fall From Height Injuries
Climbers, slides, composite structures and swings were the most consistently reported equipment associated with fall from height injuries. If we make the assumption that climbers and composite structures are essentially the same above-ground play event, then these data are strikingly similar to the results from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission findings. You may wonder how a child may receive a fall from height injury from a slide? Work conducted by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission on this same question suggests that children, while climbing the access ladder to the top of the slide, would make a risk decision concerning height. During that risk decision moment, children may fall from the access ladder while attempting to turn and descend.

Playground Hazards Sharp Points, Corners, Edges Protrusions
Provide “Hazard Free” Environments Sharp Points, Corners, Edges Protrusions Pinch, Crush, Shearing Points To help prevent injuries on the playground, child care centers should provide “hazard free” environments. In order to do this, one must be able to identify a hazard. There are a variety of general hazards common to many types of playground equipment. We are going to discuss the following major types: sharp points, corners, and edges; protrusions; and pinch, crush, and shearing points.

General Sharp points Corners Edges
Play equipment should not be able to puncture a child’s skin Open, exposed ends of tubes or pipes should be covered or plugged Wooden parts should be sanded smooth and not produce splinters Corners Metal or wood corners should be rounded Edges Metal edges should have rounded capping or be rolled Play equipment should be smooth and free of splinters and slivers that might cut or puncture a child’s skin. Covering or plugging open ends of tubing helps keep “inquiring fingers” out of harms way as well as preventing insects from creating homes. Metal edges should have rounded capping or be rolled. Frequent inspections are important to prevent injuries caused by sharp points, corners or edges that could develop as a result of wear and tear on the equipment.

General Paint Metal surfaces should be painted or galvanized to prohibit rust To prevent lead poisoning, paints or finishes used on playground equipment must meet the Federal Law - Title 16, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1303 No more than 600 parts/million maximum lead by dry weight If you are concerned about potential lead-based paint hazard with your play equipment, contact your consultant for guidance on lead hazard assessment and control A major concern for playground equipment is corrosion. Metals should be painted or galvanized to prevent rust. In 1978, the CPSC banned the sale of paint containing in excess of 0.06% lead (no more than 600 parts /million maximum lead by dry weight) intended for consumer use. Title 16, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1303 outlines these regulations. If you are concerned about potential lead-based paint hazards with your play equipment, contact your NCDCD consultant for guidance on lead hazard assessment and control. It’s important to remember that despite these Federal regulations, lead paint hazards with playgrounds have been discovered with equipment purchased as recently as 1991.

Wooden Playground Equipment
chromated copper arsenate - CCA The CPSC has been looking at possible health risks to children from wooden playground equipment treated with the chemical chromated copper arsenate (CCA). When impregnated into the wood, it reacts so the chemical cannot be washed out of the wood very easily. The preservative is effective against rot fungi, termites, and most other insects and marine borers.

Consumer Products Safety Commission
Risk to young children via hand contact Put hands in mouth Touch other objects that will go into their mouths The CPSC staff believes there is a risk to young children who play on CCA treated playground equipment and pick up arsenic residue on their hands. The children then put their hands in their mouths or on toys, food or other objects that will go into their mouths.

To Minimize Risk Care givers should thoroughly wash children’s hands with soap and water after playing Children should not eat while on the playground equipment Sealants or stains must be applied at least every 2 years Soil under CCA wood must be removed, covered or made inaccessible to children To minimize the risk to children, care givers should thoroughly wash children’s hands with soap and water immediately after playing on CCA pressure treated wood playground equipment. In addition, children should not eat while on the playground equipment. In August 2007 the Environmental Health Services Commission adopted rules that require CCA pressure treated wood to be sealed at least once every two years. Soil under the wood must also either be removed, covered by gravel, sand or other materials or made inaccessible to children. These provisions can be found in Sanitation Rule .2831

Alternatives to CCA Alkaline Copper Quat Copper Azole CCA
The wood treating industry continues to research and test safe, effective wood preservatives. Two wood preservatives are now being marketed as substitutes for CCA pressure treated lumber. These include alkaline copper quat Type C (ACQ-C) and copper azole Type B (CA-B). These new generation of preservatives are designed to perform and handle the same as CCA pressure treated lumber. Hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel fasteners (nails or screws) are recommended for use with these new substitutes. Users of these new substitutes should remember they are more corrosive due to higher amounts of copper. Therefore, try to use stainless steel fasteners whenever possible. If your budget does not permit this type of fastener, you need to use better grades of hot-dip galvanized fasteners. CCA

Protrusions Playground equipment components should not be able to entangle children’s clothing Protrusions and projections on playground equipment should not be capable of entangling children’s clothing. Protrusions and projections have been involved with serious injuries and even deaths due to strangulation. Children can die from strangulation if their clothing drawstrings become entangled with these hazards. The CPSC worked on this problem by bringing together representatives from leading manufacturers of children’s clothing. The manufacturers voluntarily agreed to remove neck and hood drawstrings from most of the 20 million children’s garments manufactured in this country, and promised that garments without these drawstrings would be available to consumers. The CPSC took the additional step of issuing voluntary guidelines that: (1) Advise manufacturers to eliminate drawstrings and to replace them with safer alternatives, such as snaps and Velcro; and (2) Advise parents to remove drawstrings from the hoods and necks of jackets and sweatshirts and to shorten drawstrings around the bottom of garments. As with many playground hazards, once you know how to identify them, you can begin to remove them.

Gauges Playground safety researchers have developed various test methods and instruments to identify protrusion hazards. These hazards are identified using protrusion test gauges. The sizes of the protrusion test gauges are designed to prevent injuries to the following parts of the child’s body: small gauge (1) - head; middle gauge (2) - eye socket and large gauge (3) - soft tissue areas including ribs, stomach, and side. The dimensions for making your own set of protrusion gauges can be found on page 12 of the 1997 U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission’s Handbook for Public Playground Safety, Publication 325.

Testing for Protrusions
3 2 1 Use the smallest of the three gauges first Move from smallest gauge to largest If any part of the protrusion extends beyond the face of the gauge, IT IS A HAZARD! 2 1 3 If you have an exposed bolt or component on your play equipment that may entangle children’s clothing, use the following test method to determine if you have a hazard. Starting with the smallest of the three gauges, try to fit the gauge over the suspect component. If the smallest gauge does not fit, move to the next largest gauge. When one of the gauges fits over the suspect component, look and see if any piece of the component extends beyond the face of the gauge. Any part of the component that extends beyond the face of the gauge (#3) is a protrusion hazard and should be removed. Removal of these hazards may be as simple as cutting long bolts short or replacing play components. Trainer Sidebar: If you have a set of gauges, find something in the classroom - perhaps use a handle from the entrapment probe - to demonstrate the process to your class. =

Special Protrusion Concerns
= Diameter should not increase in direction towards exposed end There are some special protrusion concerns to guard against. Anytime the diameter of a protrusion increases as you move away from the initial surface, the potential for a hook-like effect occurs. The top of this slide shows a compound or multiple aspect protrusion decreasing in size as you move away from the initial surface (the blue section). All parts of this compound protrusion passed the three gauge test. The compound protrusion on the bottom of the slide also passed the three gauge test. However, notice how the protrusion increases in size (the green section is larger than the yellow section) as you move away from the initial surface (the blue section). This protrusion fails the protrusion hazard test because it causes a hook-like effect that may entangle children’s clothing. = Causes a “hook-like” effect

Pinch, Crush, & Shearing Points
Play pieces or components that…. Move against one another Move relative to a stationary component should not allow children access! Equipment that might have pinch, crush, and shear points: Merry-go-rounds Seesaws Spring Rockers Sand Diggers Clatter Bridges Steering Wheels Tire Swing Chains Tricycle Go-Rounds Another general hazard is pinch, crush, and shearing points. These occur with play pieces or components that move against one another or move relative to a stationary component. Our goal is to prevent children having access to these points. Equipment that might have pinch, crush, and shearing points include: merry go rounds, seesaws, spring rockers, sand diggers, clatter bridges, steering wheels, tire swing chains, and tricycle go rounds. Special attention should be given to this type of equipment so we can guard against “inquiring hands.”

Entrapment and Entanglement Surfacing Specific Equipment Issues
Playground Hazards Entrapment and Entanglement Surfacing Specific Equipment Issues Now that we have discussed the general hazards, lets take a look at some significantly serious hazards. These include entrapment, entanglement, surfacing, and hazards associated with specific play equipment.

Entrapment Any opening on play equipment or structure where a child could get stuck: Stairs Decks Ladders Rope climbers Barriers To prevent entrapment, openings should be smaller than 3.5” or greater than 9.0” Entrapment occurs at any opening on play equipment or structure where a child could get stuck. Examples include stairs, decks, ladders, rope climbers, and barriers. Entrapment hazards are serious and life threatening. To prevent entrapment, openings should be smaller than 3.5 inches and greater than 9.0 inches.

Reason A child’s torso is smaller than a child’s head 6.2” 3.5” 9.0”
Cross Section of a five year old child’s head (95th Percentile) from the tip of the chin to the back of the head is 9.0” Why do openings between 3.5 inches and 9.0 inches pose a problem? A child’s head is larger than their waist. Research indicates that children tend to enter an opening feet first. If they enter an opening that is between 3.5 inches and 9.0 inches feet first and their waist fits through, it is very likely that their head will not fit through the same opening and they are then entrapped. Cross Section of a two-year old child’s (5th percentile) torso is 3.5” by 6.2” Back 6.2” 3.5” Belly Button

What Can Happen? This slide demonstrates this concept. In order to reach the rings, the child enters the opening between the bars feet first. Their waist fits through but unfortunately their head will not fit through the same opening resulting in an entrapment. This illustration is based on an actual case where a child was entrapped in this manner. Luckily an adult was near by to help free the child from this dangerous situation. Without the adult’s assistance, this child would have died.

Hazard Any opening between 3.5” and 9.0” may entrap a child’s head whether the child enters head first in one orientation and attempts to withdraw the head in a different orientation; the child enters an opening feet first where the opening is large enough to allow the body to pass through, but not the head Entrapment can occur even if the child’s feet are touching the ground Therefore, any opening between 3.5 inches and 9.0 inches may entrap a child’s head whether the child enters head first in one orientation and attempts to withdraw the head in a different orientation or the child enters an opening feet first where the opening is large enough to allow the body to pass through but not the head. In addition, entrapment can occur even if the child’s feet are the touching the ground.

Templates/Probes Playground safety researchers have also developed various test methods and instruments to identify entrapment hazards. These hazards are identified by using a large head probe or template and a small torso probe or template. The probes are usually made from hard plastic as shown in this slide. These instruments are purchased from a variety of vendors. Templates, on the other hand, are made by you. The dimensions for making your own set of entrapment templates can be found on page 33 of the 1997 U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission’s Handbook for Public Playground Safety, Publication These templates can be easily made from cardboard or plywood.

Testing for Entrapment Hazard
Using templates/probes Any opening that allows the small torso template/probe to pass through, but does NOT allow the large head template/probe to pass through FAILS = HAZARD Any opening that does NOT allow the small torso template/probe to pass through OR allows BOTH the small torso template/probe and the large head template/probe to pass through PASSES = NO HAZARD If you have an opening on your play equipment that you think may entrap a child, use the large head probe and small torso probe to determine if you have a hazard. Any opening that allows the small torso probe to pass through but does not allow the large head probe to pass through, the test fails and you have a hazard. Any opening that does not allow the small torso probe to pass through or allows both the small torso probe and the large head probe to pass through, the test passes and you do not have a hazard. In short, if both probes go through or both probes do not go through, it passes. If only one probe goes through, it fails. Trainer Sidebar: If you have a set of probes, find something in the classroom - perhaps a chair - demonstrate the process to your class.

Conditions Exception Special Condition
Where the ground acts as the lowest border of the opening Special Condition Openings formed by flexible or moving climbing components These recommendations usually apply to most situations when testing for entrapment hazards. However, one exception for this test recommendation is an opening where the ground serves as the lowest border of the opening. In addition, openings formed by flexible or moving climbing components have different procedures when testing for an entrapment hazard. Let’s look at these special conditions in more detail.

Exception Where the ground acts as the lowest border of the opening
When the ground acts as the lowest border of the opening, the entrapment exception applies. Why? Because the ground, covered with a protective covering is movable. These exceptions can occur at the bottom deck of a stepped platform, at the bottom rung of a step ladder or bottom stair of a staircase. Just remember that although these locations may be exempt from the entrapment hazard, all other hazard discovery rules and methods are still in effect. NO HAZARD

What About Synthetic Surfaces?
Does the entrapment exception apply if the lowest border of the opening is synthetic surfacing? The current CPSC guidelines would not permit an exception because this type of surfacing is not movable. Because the guidelines are somewhat ambiguous on this point this issue is currently under review by the Consumer Products Safety Commission. Until this situation has been addressed by the CPSC and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the other important playground safety standards entity, child care providers should carefully test openings bounded by synthetic surfaces for entrapments and take action to remove the hazard if it fails the entrapment test.

Special Condition Openings formed by non-rigid climbing components
A force no greater than 50 lbs. may be applied when testing both the small torso template/probe and large head template/probe If one template passes and the other does not FAILS = HAZARD As mentioned earlier, openings formed by flexible or moving climbing components have different procedures when testing for an entrapment hazard. For this situation, a force no greater than 50 pounds may be applied when testing both the small torso probe and large head probe. If one probe passes and the other does not, the tests fails meaning you have a hazard. How can you tell what is 50 pounds of force? If you must hold the probe with both hands, brace both feet and have to grunt in order to force the probe through the opening, you are probably exerting 50 pounds of force. The entrapment issue with non-rigid climbing components, like cargo net climbers, is that the size and shape of openings can be altered when force is applied, either intentionally or simply when a child climbs on or falls through the opening. Children are then potentially at risk of entrapment in these distorted openings. With flexible play components like cargo net climbers, pay close attention to the location where the equipment is anchored to the ground. Often the concrete footer or attachments supporting the flexible component may be exposed and create other hazards.

Entrapment Activity Let’s see if we can locate areas on the following pieces of equipment where entrapments may occur. Trainer Sidebar: If you have a pointer use it here. If not, physically walk up to the screen and point to the entrapment hazard. This piece of equipment has multiple entrapment hazards. Entrapments are located between each of the horizontal wooden slats.

Entrapment Activity Why are spaces between the vertical bars in this example an entrapment? Trainer Sidebar: In short, if both probes go through or both probes do not go through, it passes. If only one probe goes through, it fails. Because only one fits through we have an entrapment.

Entrapment Example This is another example showing a location on a piece of equipment where the large head probe will not fit through the opening while the small torso probe will fit through the opening. Trainer Sidebar: Reinforce the concept if only one probe goes through, the test fails and you have an entrapment.

Entrapment Activity A component or a group of components should not form openings that could trap a child’s head. Generally, an opening presents an entrapment hazard if the distance between any interior opposing surfaces falls between what size openings? Trainer Sidebar: Openings between 3.5 inches and 9.0 inches.

Entanglement Children’s clothing can become entangled in play equipment Areas that can entangle clothing include Protrusions and projections Upright “V” angles of less than 55 Children’s clothing can become entangled in play equipment. Areas that can entangle clothing include protrusions and projections, and upright “V” angles of less than 55 degrees. Since we have already talked about protrusion and projections, let’s discuss upright “V” angles.

Upright “V” Angle Hazard
x Defined - any “V” shaped corner less than 55  formed by adjacent components of play equipment Exception I - if one leg of the “V” is horizontal or sloping downwards Horizontal X  55  An upright “V” angle hazard is defined as any “V” shaped corner less than 55 degrees formed by adjacent components of play equipment. If one leg of the “V” is horizontal or sloping downwards, the angle is not a hazard. Horizontal

Entanglement Activity
Let’s see if we can locate areas on this piece of equipment where an upright V-angle hazard may occur. Trainer Sidebar: If you have a pointer use it here. If not, physically walk up to the screen and point to the V-angle hazard. This piece of equipment has two locations where an upright V-angle hazard occurs. Notice where the handrail comes up, then bends back down to connect at the top of the slide. That connection point, most obvious on the right hand side of the slide, creates an upright V-angle hazard. The second or in this case the same hazard occurs on the other side of the slide at the same juncture. Reinforce the point that this upright V-angle hazard could easily catch or entangle the drawstring of a child’s jacket.

Surfacing for Stationary Play Equipment
Nationally nearly 70% of playground related injuries are from falls Fall injuries are a result of two things the height a child falls from the material/surface the child falls upon Provide “soft,” resilient, surfaces under and around stationary playground equipment that is more than 18” high Incorrect surfacing can cause serious injuries. Nationally nearly 70 percent of playground related injuries are from falls. These fall injuries are a result of two factors: the height a child falls and the surface (material) the child falls upon. In order to prevent these injuries, child care centers should provide “soft,” resilient surfaces under and around stationary playground equipment. In November 2007 a few changes were made to the playground rules. One change was that the rules now specify a minimum height requirement for when surfacing is required. Previously any stationary equipment, regardless of height, required resilient surfacing. Now, only equipment that is more than 18” would require resilient surfacing. (Rule .0605(h))..

Surfacing Activity Can anyone tell me if the surfacing shown in this slide is an acceptable surface? Trainer Sidebar: The answer is no. Earth surfaces such as soils and hard packed dirt are not recommended because they have poor shock absorbing properties. In addition, grass and turf are not recommended because wear and tear and environmental conditions can reduce their effectiveness in absorbing shock during a fall.

“Soft,” Resilient Surfaces
Wood mulch Double shredded bark mulch Engineered wood fiber Sand, both fine and coarse Pea gravel (!!ONLY in play areas for children 3 years or older!!) Manufactured/synthetic surfaces that meet the ASTM 1292 standard The body of playground safety research has identified “soft” surfaces or surfaces that are acceptable for use under and around play equipment because they absorb the force or impact of a fall. To be acceptable, they must meet the ASTM Standard F 1292, Method to Test for Impact Attenuation of Safety Surfacing for Playgrounds. Some surfaces meeting this standard include wood mulch, double shredded bark mulch, engineered wood fiber, fine and coarse sand, and pea gravel. Hard surfaces like asphalt, concrete or bare ground are not acceptable for use under and around play equipment. For North Carolina licensed child care centers, pea gravel is only acceptable for playgrounds intended for use by three year olds and older. Trainer Sidebar: It may be a good idea to to pass around examples of different types of surfacing to the audience. You can find links to contact surfacing manufacturers on the “Links” part of the website/CD.

Surfaces – Pros and Cons
Type Pros Cons Organic Loose Low initial cost Decompose Easy to install Microbial growth Attractive Compact Readily available Spreads easily Inorganic Loose Combines with dirt Can be swallowed Do not pulverize Conceal excrement May be blown Each one of these surface types has pros and cons. Organic loose materials (wood mulch, double shredded bark mulch, engineered wood fiber) have a low initial cost, are easy to install, have an attractive appearance, and are readily available. However these surfaces, over time decompose, are subject to microbial growth when wet, compact, and can be easily spread. Inorganic loose material (sand and pea gravel) has a low initial cost, are easy to install, do not pulverize, and are readily available. However these surfaces with normal use combine with dirt and other foreign materials, may be swallowed, may conceal animal excrement, and may be blown.

Critical Height and Depth of Surface
Critical height - the maximum height a child may climb, sit or stand on the play equipment The depth of surface should be based upon the critical height of the equipment How much surfacing is enough? The general rule is this, the higher the equipment, the deeper the surface. The depth of the surface is based upon the critical height of the equipment. The maximum height a child may climb, sit or stand on the play equipment is the critical height. Trainer Sidebar: If you get a question concerning the definition of critical height, remember this definition pertains to measuring critical height as the equipment is intended to be used. The higher the equipment, the deeper the surface!!

Depths of Acceptable Surfaces
(In Inches of Surfacing) The critical height and the type of surfacing used in your playground will determine the acceptable surface depth. For example, if you have a critical height of less than 5 feet, the acceptable uncompressed surface depth is 6 inches regardless of the material. However, if your critical height is 8 feet, the acceptable depth varies. Wood mulch would require 9 inches (uncompressed) while fine sand would require 12 inches (uncompressed). (*ONLY in play areas for children 3 years or older!!)

Under and Around For equipment used by children 2 and older, surfacing (at the appropriate depth) should be placed around stationary play equipment for a distance of 6 feet For equipment used by children <2 years, surfacing only needs to extend for a distance of 3 feet. This area around stationary play equipment is called the “fall zone” Stationary equipment anchors located in the fall zone must be covered with surfacing material and not exposed Surfacing (at the appropriate depth) should be placed around stationary equipment for a distance of 6 feet for children 2 and older. In the rule changes that were adopted in November 2007, a smaller area was added for younger children. For children under 2, the surfacing only needs to extend 3 feet. This area around stationary equipment is called the “fall zone.” It should be thought of as a “no use” zone. By that we mean, children should not park wheeled toys, or move portable climber inside this area. Stationary equipment anchors in the fall zone must be covered with surfacing materials and not exposed.

Movable Equipment? Rule adopted by the North Carolina Child Care Commission does not require surfacing under movable equipment. However, the four environment rating scales used for star licensing does call for 6 inches of surfacing under all fall zones. The environment rating scales include: Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R), Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS-R), Family Child Care Environment Rating Scale (FCCERS), and School-Age Care Environment Rating Scale (SACERS). Therefore, movable equipment without surfacing would result in a lower rating scale score. The CPSC has also issued a safety alert on plastic climbing equipment. This alert advises child care providers to put climbing equipment outdoors on surfaces such as sand and mulch to prevent children’s head injuries.

Swing seats should be constructed from a soft, flexible material !!
Fall Zones Fall zones may only overlap in certain situations: Around spring rockers Around adjacent equipment that is more than 18” but less than 30” in height Special Fall Zones To-Fro Swings Tot Swings (enclosed seats) Tire Swings Fall zones may overlap in certain situations: around spring rockers, and if the equipment is higher than 18” and lower than 30” in height then a fall zone can be shared. In addition, special fall zone dimensions specific to the following swing types are required: to-fro swings, tot swings, and tire swings. Child care professionals should remember the swing seats are to be constructed from a soft, flexible material. Swing seats should be constructed from a soft, flexible material !!

Swing Activity Does anyone notice any concern in this slide?
Trainer Sidebar: Although not covered within the NCDCD playground rules, to minimize the likelihood of children being struck in a bay by a moving swing, it is recommended that no more than two single-axis swings be hung in each bay of the supporting structure. It is recommended that for younger children, playgrounds have separate areas for appropriately sized equipment and materials to serve their developmental levels. This particular bay does not have age separation of equipment because it contains one tot swing and two single-axis swings in the same bay.

To-Fro Swing Fall Zone Fall zone should be equal to twice the distance from the pivot point to the surface (X), to the front and back of the swing X X =8 feet 16 feet The fall zone for the to-fro swing should be equal to twice the distance from the pivot point to the surface. In this case 2 times 8 feet or 16 feet. 2 x 8 (X) = 16

Tot Swing Fall Zone Fall zone should be equal to two times the distance from the pivot point to bottom of the swing seat (Y), to the front and back of the swing Y Y = 6 feet 12 feet The fall zone for the tot swing should be equal to twice the distance from the pivot point to the bottom of the swing seat. In this case 2 times 6 feet or 12 feet. 2 x 6 (Y) = 12

Tire Swing Fall Zone 6 feet + 5 feet (H) = 11 feet
Fall zone should be equal to six feet plus the measurement of the distance from the pivot point to top of the swing seat (H), to the front and back of the swing, and six feet around the support structure H H = 5 feet The fall zone for the tire swing should be equal to 6 feet plus the measurement of the distance from the pivot point to the top of the swing seat. In this case 6 feet plus 5 feet or 11 feet. 6 feet 6 feet 11 feet 6 feet + 5 feet (H) = 11 feet

Guardrails and Protective Barriers
Guardrails prevent inadvertent or unintentional falls from elevated platforms Barriers prevent attempts to climb over, around or through Elevated platforms intended for different ages have different requirements Children under two years Both preschool and school age children Preschool children only School age children only Elevated platforms should have guardrails or protective barriers depending upon the height of the platform and the age of the children that will have access to the piece of equipment. Guardrails prevent inadvertent or unintentional falls from elevated platforms. Barriers prevent attempts to climb over, around or through the barrier. Elevated platforms intended for both preschool and school age children, children under 2, preschool children aged 2 to 5 only, and school age children only have different requirements. Trainer Sidebar: During the “Safe Active Play” video, a section of the video references the difference between guardrails and protective barriers. It may be worth a moment at the end of the video to revisit the difference between the two.

Critical Height and Elevated Platforms
Measure critical height for platforms with guardrails from the top of the guardrail to the ground Measure critical height for platforms with protective barriers from the platform surface to the ground Maximum height of platforms used by children under 2 is 32”. The critical height for a platform with a guardrail is measured from the top of the guardrail to the ground. The critical height for a platform with a barrier is measured from the platform surface to the ground. You should remember that critical height measurements for platforms with guardrails and protective barriers differ from the general method of determining critical height on other playground components. Another rule change is that for equipment used by children under 2, the maximum height of the platform or play surface is no greater than 32”, regardless of guardrails or protective barriers.

Guardrails Are Needed When
B C If equipment is used by and height of elevated surface is then minimum height top surface is and height lower edge is Preschool and School Age (2 - 13) > 20” but ≤ 30” ≥ 38” ≤ 23” Preschool (2 – 5) ≥ 29” School Age (5–13) > 30” but ≤ 48” ≤ 28” If equipment is used by children 2 and older and the elevated surface is more than 20 inches and no more than 30 inches above the underlying surface a guardrail is needed. The minimum height of the top surface of the guardrail shall be at 38 inches high and the lower edge shall be no more than 23 inches above the platform. If equipment is used exclusively by children aged 2 to 5, and the elevated surface is more than 20 inches and no more than 30 inches above the underlying surface a guardrail is needed. The minimum height of the top surface of the guardrail shall be at 29 inches high and the lower edge shall be no more than 23 inches above the platform. If equipment is used exclusively by school age children and the elevated surface is more than 30 inches and no more than 48 inches above the underlying surface a guardrail is needed. The minimum height of the top surface of the guardrail shall be at 38 inches high and the lower edge shall be no more than 28 inches above the platform. A B C

Protective Barriers Are Needed When
If equipment is used by children who are - A - height of elevated surface is B - then minimum height top surface is Under 2 years of age > 18” 24” Preschool and School Age (2 to 13) > 30” ≥ 38” Preschool (2 to 5) ≥ 29” School Age (5 to 13) > 48” A B If equipment is used only by children under 2, and the elevated surface is more than 18” (but remember that it can’t be more than 32” for these youngest children), a protective barrier is needed. The minimum height of the top surface of the protective barrier should be 24”. If equipment is used by children aged 2 to 13, and the elevated surface is more than 30 inches above the underlying surface, a protective barrier is needed. The minimum height of the top surface of the protective barrier shall be at least 38 inches high. If equipment is used only by children ages 2 to 5, and the elevated surface is more than 30 inches above the underlying surface, a protective barrier is needed. The minimum height of the top surface of the protective barrier shall be at least 29 inches high. If equipment is used exclusively by school age children and the elevated surface is more than 48 inches above the underlying surface a protective barrier is needed. The minimum height of the top surface of the protective barrier shall be at least 38 inches high.

Playground Hazard Mastery Quiz
To review what we have learned about playground hazards, lets look at some actual examples to see if you can pinpoint the hazards. Trainer Sidebar: If you have a pointer use it here. If not, physically walk up to the screen and point to the hazards. This picture shows a footing which is exposed. All anchoring devices for playground equipment, such as concrete footings, should be installed below ground level to eliminate the hazard of tripping. This will also prevent children who may fall from sustaining additional injuries due to exposed footings.

What hazard is shown in this slide? Trainer Sidebar: If you have a pointer use it here. If not, physically walk up to the screen and point to the hazards. This picture shows potential sharp corners and edges on swing seat hangers. These types of swing seat attachments, over time, can develop sharp corners and edges. The constant pressure of the seat against the attachment bar causes the thinner metal edge of the seat fastener to “roll up” and become sharp. To minimize this hazard, routine inspections should be diligent in examining the attachment area (point within the yellow circle). Replacement should be made when any sharp edges are present.

What are the hazards shown in this slide? Trainer Sidebar: If you have a pointer use it here. If not, physically walk up to the screen and point to the hazards. The left side of the picture shows a protrusion hazard located on a composite structure where the handrail attaches to the structure. The situation can be corrected by replacing the plastic cap with a shorter one so it fits under the test gauge. The right side of the picture shows a wasp nest located underneath the composite structure. To correct this situation remove the wasp nest immediately and ensure the inspection process covers underneath the play structures.

What is the hazard shown in this slide? Trainer Sidebar: If you have a pointer use it here. If not, physically walk up to the screen and point to the hazards. This slide demonstrates an entrapment on a composite structure. A solution for this particular problem will necessitate contacting the vendor or installer.

How many hazards can you find in this slide? Trainer Sidebar: If you have a pointer use it here. If not, physically walk up to the screen and point to the hazards. One hazard is the lack of “soft” surfacing under the swing and slide. In addition, the tape measure located in the center of the slide references the concern of an inappropriate fall zone for the swing and the remnants of a teeter-totter in front of the swing. You should remind the participants that determining fall zones for play equipment may help them allocate their equipment more efficiently.

Does anyone recognize this hazard? Trainer Sidebar: If you have a pointer use it here. If not, physically walk up to the screen and point to the hazards. This slide demonstrates a special protrusion hazard on an overhead climbing ladder. Anytime the diameter of a protrusion increases as you move away from the initial surface, the potential for a hook-like effect occurs. This protrusion fails the protrusion hazard test because it causes a hook-like effect that may entangle children’s clothing.

Implementing a Playground Safety Program
In order to create a safe play environment for children and to provide as much protection as possible for your agency’s defense in the event of a legal challenge, it has become necessary to develop and adopt some form of a comprehensive playground safety program. This section outlines how to begin this program and organize your playground safety efforts into a routine. About 70% of playground-related litigation has been connected to maintenance issues

Putting a Program in Place
A playground safety program must be comprehensive and consistent. A comprehensive system should include: Developing an INVENTORY Conducting an AUDIT Performing an INSPECTION Creating a MASTER FILE A playground safety program must be comprehensive and consistent. A comprehensive system should include: developing an inventory, conducting an audit, performing an inspection, and creating a master file. 1

Developing an Inventory Lets take a closer look at developing an inventory.

Inventory Location map of equipment complete with fall zones
Name and address of equipment manufacturer Installation and assembly information Age of equipment Depth of surfacing and type of surfacing Critical height for each play component Age of intended users for the playground or specific pieces of equipment The first step in developing an inventory is draw a simple map of your playground. It does not have to be great artwork; it only has to show the location of your playground equipment. The next step is to list the manufacturer’s name and address of each piece of equipment on your playground. Gather all of the corresponding material provided by the manufacturers and make certain that you have the installation and assembly verification for each piece of equipment. If you do not, contact the manufacturer or a qualified playground safety inspector to document that your equipment has been documented properly. Record the age of each piece of equipment, the depth and type of surfacing used around the equipment, the critical height of each piece of equipment, and the age of intended users. 6

Example of Location Map
Center Sandbox Geodesic Climber 6’ Fall Zone Little Tykes Composite Tot swings 20”8” Fall Zone Spring Rocker As I mentioned earlier, the map of your playground does not have be a masterpiece. It only needs to show the basic location of your playground equipment. Remember to update your maps when new equipment is added or old equipment is removed.

Proper Installation and Assembly
Proper installation and assembly is CRITICAL to maintaining stability and integrity of playground structure Anchor all play equipment to the manufacturer’s specifications Have manufacturers representative or a person qualified to inspect playgrounds verify and DOCUMENT that the equipment was assembled and installed properly Proper installation and assembly is critical to maintaining stability and integrity of playground structures. Make sure you anchor all play equipment to the manufacturer’s specifications. Have a manufacturers representative or a person qualified to inspect playgrounds verify and document that the equipment was assembled and installed properly. Equipment not installed and assembled properly, is not safe.

Conducting an Audit The second step in implementing a safety program is the audit.

Audit The safety audit is a detailed examination of each individual play component as well as the whole play area The audit consists of three elements: Test Evaluate Repair The safety audit is a detailed examination of each individual play component as well as the whole play area. The audit consists of three elements: test, evaluate, and repair. 8

Test Each Play Piece Test: General Hazards Entrapment and Entanglement
Sharp points Corners Edges Protrusions and projections Pinch, crush, shearing points Entrapment and Entanglement Surfacing Specific Equipment Using your probes, gauges, hands, and eyes, examine each piece of equipment for general hazards, entrapment hazards, and entanglement hazards. Because you already determined the critical height of each piece of play equipment when you developed your inventory, you only have to measure the depth of your surfacing and the fall zone of your surfacing. Measure the surfacing depth at several places around the play piece, taking special care to examine high traffic areas such as entry and exit points. Your audit form will also remind you to examine specific pieces of equipment, such as the seats of swings and play pieces requiring protective barriers and guardrails. Check the heights of existing barriers and guardrails to ensure they comply with recommendations. Be sure to make a note of those play pieces that need a barrier or guardrail but currently do not have one. 9

Evaluate Establish some criteria to evaluate level of hazard
HIGH LEVEL OF HAZARD - Life or limb threatening MEDIUM LEVEL OF HAZARD - Injury potential but not life or limb threatening (pinch, crush, shearing points) LOW LEVEL OF HAZARD - Minor injury potential (rough, splintered wood) DOCUMENT!! Once you have thoroughly examined every part of the playground and documented any hazards, it is time to evaluate the severity of each hazard. Using the criteria on your audit form, determine whether the level of each hazard is high, medium or low. If the hazard is life or limb threatening, record it as a high level of hazard. If the hazard could cause significant injury but it is not life or limb threatening, record it as a medium level of hazard. If the hazard could cause a minor injury, record it as a low level of hazard. 10

Repair Utilize evaluation DOCUMENT!!
HIGH LEVEL OF HAZARD - Remove from play immediately!! Contact equipment manufacturer and your consultant. If unable to retrofit or repair, remove permanently!! MEDIUM LEVEL OF HAZARD - Repair or replace, first priority expense LOW LEVEL OF HAZARD - Repair or replace, second priority expense DOCUMENT!! Any high level of hazard must be removed from play immediately. Contact the equipment manufacturer and your NCDCD consultant. If you are unable to retrofit or repair the equipment, you should remove it from your playground permanently. A medium or low level hazard should also be removed from play, repaired, retrofitted or replaced as soon as your budget will allow. Only after it is repaired should the play piece be used again. We should take a moment and recommend that child care providers should always contact and consult with the equipment manufacturers before any retrofits or repairs are made on any equipment. This is another reason to collect equipment manufacturer contact information during the Inventory phase of the Playground Safety Program. 11

Performing an Inspection Once you have completed your inventory and audit, and made any necessary changes and repairs to your playground, your playground should be much safer. However, to keep it free from hazards, regular inspections must be performed to check the condition of the playground and equipment.

Inspection Use a checklist
Incorporate manufacturer’s suggested maintenance into routine inspections Inspections must be “HANDS-ON” If necessary, initiate the repair process If broken equipment discovered, remove from play immediately!! When performing inspections use a checklist. Incorporate manufacturer’s suggested maintenance into routine inspections. Remember, inspections must be “hands-on.” If necessary, initiate the repair process as soon as you discover the hazard. Finally, if broken equipment is discovered, remove it from the play area immediately. 12

Creating a Master File In the event that a mishap occurs on your playground, you will want to have “proof” that you have established and currently follow a playground safety program. Your master file is where you will keep your completed inventory form, audit information, dated inspection forms, and manufacturer material. Additionally, each time a member of your staff receives playground safety training including the NCDCD required four hour program like this class today, this should be recorded and placed in the master file. Playground incident reports required by NCDCD and any follow-up related to an accident should also be kept in the master file.

Master File Inventory - once Audits - once a year
Update when changes are made to the playground Audits - once a year Test, Evaluate, and Repair phases Inspections - once a month Use NCDCD Inspection Form Injury - whenever they happen Use NCDCD Incident Report Form, Incident Log Training - as employees receive training Keep a copy of the staff members certificate from playground safety training Your master file will be an “active” file, meaning you will continually update and add information to it. Items that may be added to the file include inventory updates, audit forms, NCDCD required monthly inspections reports, incident reports, and training documentation. Remember that weekly inspections must be also conducted for resiliency of surfacing as well as daily inspections for broken equipment, debris and vandalism.

First Soapbox Operate under the principal that if it has not been documented in the Master File, it has not been done!! First soapbox! Operate under the principal that if it has not been documented in the master file, it has not been done! 4

Getting Everyone Involved
Childcare Staff A successful playground safety program only partially has to do with master files, proper installation of equipment, and having enough surfacing. A playground safety program must also involve all the people in and around the playground setting. This includes child care staff, children, and parents.

Principles of Supervision
Locate yourself so you can see the children at play, and they can see you Enforce proper use of play equipment! Review playground rules with children in class and on the playground If equipment is broken, prevent children from using by: removing the equipment from the playground or placing a barrier around the broken equipment check with your local NCDCD consultant for further advice and suggestions For child care staff, this means following the fundamental principles of supervision. You should locate yourself so you can see the children at play and they can see you. You should enforce proper use of the play equipment. Review playground rules with the children in class and on the playground. If equipment is broken, prevent children from using it by: removing the equipment from the playground, placing a barrier around the broken equipment or check with your local NCDCD consultant for further advice and suggestions.

Wrong Location Your field of vision should not exceed 180°
Make sure that one piece of play equipment does not block your view of others The teacher pictured here has selected the wrong location to supervise this playground. She cannot see children at play behind her, nor could she see children playing on the far side of the composite structure located in front of her.

Right Location Supervise near high use or potentially dangerous areas
If more than one teacher, swap positions at least once during the play period Compare the teacher’s positioning presented here to the previous slide. These teachers located on the outside of the play area have fields of vision that do not exceed 180 degrees. They are also able to locate themselves near high use or potentially dangerous areas, such as the swings. A final thought may be if more than one teacher is on the playground, have them rotate positions at least once during the play period.

Second Soapbox Supervision on the playground is just as important as supervision in the classroom! Second soapbox! Supervision on the playground is just as important as supervision in the classroom. Many times child care staff have a tendency to “relax” when they go to the playground. Rather than supervising the children they may view playground time as break time or a chance to socialize with their peers. To ensure the safety of the children, it is imperative that the staff continue to monitor and supervise the children. As we all know, it only takes a moment for a mishap to occur. Being too casual with your supervision on the playground only increases the chances for a mishap. 4

Getting Everyone Involved
Parents Children As mentioned earlier, parents and children are also part of the equation when it comes to a successful playground safety program.

Getting Parents Involved
Making a playground safe requires the cooperation of many people: planners, equipment manufacturers, child care staff and administrators, teachers, maintenance employees, children, and PARENTS! Parents must be made aware of potential playground hazards and how THEY can contribute to making their child’s play time a safe time Parents must be made aware of potential playground hazards and how they can contribute to making their child’s play time a safe time. Some providers send home a different playground safety rule with children each Friday, with a note to parents encouraging them to discuss it with their child over the weekend. Another great idea is to send home a copy of the Public Playground Safety Checklist produced by the CPSC.

Getting Children Involved
Engage older children in an “ideas” session where they come up with their own rules for safe play. Here are some ideas to get them started or to help if they get stuck: Always wait your turn One at a time on equipment Only sit upright in swings No pushing, shoving or rough play Grip rungs with thumb underneath rung Don’t walk close to swings and slide Always wear shoes Engage older children in an “ideas” session where they come up with their own rules for safe play. Ideas to get them started or to help them if they get stuck include: always wait your turn; one at a time on equipment; only sit upright in swings; no pushing, shoving or rough play; grip rungs with thumb underneath rung; do not walk close to swings and slides; and always wear shoes.

Getting Children Involved
What are some fun activities that would encourage children to begin thinking about safety? Create a game out of memorizing safety rules After time on the playground, ask children to act out or share a story about how they played safely Ask them to draw pictures of safe or unsafe practices on the playground Cut pictures out of magazines to create a safe, fun playground What are some fun activities that would encourage children of all ages to begin thinking about safety? (1) Create a game out of memorizing safety rules; (2) After time on the playground, ask children to act out or share a story about how they played safely; (3) Ask them to draw pictures of safe or unsafe practices on the playground; and (4) Cut pictures out of magazines to create a safe, fun playground.

Summary Children do get injured on playgrounds
Everyone can identify and remove hazards from their playgrounds Providing “hazard free” play environments is important for the development and safety of children As a short summary, we all need to remember that children do get injured on the playground, everyone can identify and remove hazards from their playgrounds, and providing “hazard free” play environments is important for the development and safety of children.

North Carolina Outdoor Learning Environments Alliance
A statewide collaborative focused on improving the quality of outdoor environments for all children. The North Carolina Outdoor Learning Environments Alliance is a statewide collaborative effort, working to improve outdoor environments for all children. Visit the website noted here for valuable resources about this effort.

Importance of Outdoor Play
Sense of freedom for children and teachers Health benefits from physical activity Technology eating into outdoor time Why is it so important for children to play outdoors? The outdoor environment offers a sense of freedom for both children and teachers. Nowhere is it possible for children to live more fully than in a well-planned and well-equipped environment. The health benefits of outdoor play are also obvious. These include physical health, mental and emotional health, spiritual health, and environmental health. Finally, children of all ages are spending more time engaged in indoor activities and less time outdoors with the arrival of technology. Anything childcare professionals can do to increase outdoor play time is critical in today’s world.

Outdoor Play Components
Getting out the door Safety outdoors Developing outdoor space Program and materials for outdoor play and learning Outdoor play consists of four components. These include: (1) Getting out the door. Virtually anything that can be done inside, can be done outside; (2)Safety outdoors. Extend indoor safety concepts and practices to the outdoor play environment - first aid kits and sun safety; (3) Developing outdoor space. Remember to include spaces for outdoor toy/equipment storage when designing a space to inspire children; and (4) Program and materials for outdoor play and learning. Teachers can organize wonderful collections of resource materials that can include paper goods, writing and drawing tools, materials for constructions and collages, and sculpting materials. By creating a resourceful outdoor learning environment, the teacher is providing more occasions for adventure. First aid kit

Types of Play Active physical play Engaged in Observation Quiet
Dramatic Creative Children play in many different ways. It is important for children to have the opportunity to play for play’s sake. Types of play important for outdoor learning experiences include: active physical play, passive or perhaps more appropriately termed engaged in observation play, quiet play, dramatic play, and creative play.

Outdoor Learning Environment Activities
Child Directed Teacher Directed Outdoor learning environment activities can be of two types. Child-directed inquiry based activities allow children to experiment, learn through trial and error, and create their own play. When teachers direct the activities, they can present children with new ideas or play themes, different materials and games to play, and innovative strategies for experimentation. Community Independent School, Chatham County

Varied Opportunities When looking at outdoor space, consider how to provide as many varied opportunities as possible to energize children in activities that promote their growth and development. It is important that the materials and equipment meet the developmental needs of the children that will use it.

Options to Enrich Outdoors
Play crates Transition area Observation opportunities Semi-structures Digging areas Multiple age service The outdoor learning environment is more than just the space and equipment available. To enrich the outdoor environment, you may want to consider these options: play crates, a smooth transition area, observation opportunities (bottom slide is a bird blind for children to observe birds coming to a feeder), semi-structures, digging areas, and serving multiple age groups.

Critical Factors Engaging activities Storage space Water
Access to emergency medical sources Access to restrooms Interaction with the natural environment Open space Inclusive environment Routine maintenance Starting to develop an excellent outdoor environment is a challenging and evolving process. Critical factors that are essential to the outdoor learning environment include: engaging activities, storage space (example slide), water, access to emergency medical sources, access to restrooms, interaction with the natural environment, open space, an inclusive environment so everyone can play, and routine maintenance in the outdoor area.

Outdoor Assessment Tools
Needed to measure the quality of outdoor learning environments Parallel project directed by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Increasing interest in outdoor learning environments has resulted in the need for outdoor assessment tools to assess the quality of the outdoor environment in child care program in conjunction with existing safety aspects required by the Division of Child Development. A parallel project steered by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension has begun to address this need with the development of an outdoor assessment tool for preschool children.

The Outdoor Learning Environment Is Personal
The outdoor learning environment is personal. It reflects the values of your program and the interests of your children. A safe, well-planned outdoor environment provides opportunities for children to seek new challenges as they master old ones.

Safe Active Play Video The video Safe Active Play is a good review of the material we have just covered today. In addition, the video also mentions safety tips we have not covered. For example, it reminds us to make sure children have adequate sun screen when they are playing outside. Let’s take a 5 minute break and then watch the video. It lasts 35 minutes. Then we will proceed to the playground to conduct our hands-on playground audit.

Sensible Safe Play A Practical and Educational Interpretation

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