Summertime is here, and your kids are likely spending more time outside.
Playing outside is a big part of a child’s summer, and while we want them to be happy and have fun, we also want them to be safe.
That’s why we’ve put together these tips on creating a safe environment for your kids and their friends.
General Tips For Safe Backyard Play
- Conduct regular inspections of play equipment for general wear and tear.
- Keep your backyard clean. Clear away any rubbish or anything that can cause kids to trip, as well as any plants that may cause illnesses in children.
- Keep tools and chemicals locked away when you’re not using them.
- Make sure the bikes and other play equipment your children use are appropriate to their age and size.
- Your play equipment should have no sharp edges, splinters, or protrusions that could cause cuts and abrasions or get caught on hair and clothing.
- Keep play areas fenced in from driveways, garages, and carports.
- If you have a pool, make sure the gate around it is self-closing and self-locking.
Rules For Supervision
Kids need supervision, but the level of oversight they need depends on their age.
- Kids 6 and under need constant supervision, meaning an adult is always in sight and sound of the children. At this age, kids are still learning balance, problem-solving and spatial relationships. They need room to explore, but also need boundaries and reassurance that an adult is near to keep them safe.
- Kids ages 7-9 need constant or intermittent supervision. Intermittent means the adult should check in every 15 minutes. At this age, children need more room for play but still need pretty regular supervision.
- From ages 10 and on, kids require just occasional monitoring, meaning you should check on them every 15 to 30 minutes.
Mom, Can We Use The Trampoline?
Trampolines are a lot of fun, but they require some supervision to avoid injuries. Here are a few steps for ensuring your kids use their trampoline safely:
- Place the trampoline on a flat, stable surface. You should have a clearance of 17 feet above the bed of the trampoline.
- Only allow one child at a time on the trampoline. Children should jump at the center of the mat, and focus their eyes on the trampoline to control their bouncing.
- Children should climb on and off the trampoline rather than jumping off.
- Inspect the trampoline regularly for rust on the springs, tears in the fabric and other damage.
Swing Set Safety
When you have a backyard swing set installed, the company you choose should follow certain measurement guidelines.
- Swings shouldn’t be too close together, or too close to support structures.
- There should be at least eight inches between suspended swings and between the swing and its support frame. Allow for at least eight inches between the underside of the swing and the ground.
- Kids need a soft place to land, and dirt and grass won’t cut it. Use a protective surfacing near the swing set. Rubber mulch is an excellent choice.
If you’re concerned about safety, it makes sense to leave swing set and other backyard play equipment installation to professionals.
Let’s Play Outside™
The professionals Swingset & Toy Warehouse can help you find the play equipment that’s right for your kids and your yard, and work with you to install it safely. Contact us today and we’ll help your kids have a memorable – and safe – summer.