Setting Playground Equipment Rules

It’s important to set clear rules on the playground to ensure everyone can have fun and be safe. If you have rules that are fair, enforceable, and logical, you’re on the right track. 

Here are some good safety rules to consider for your public playground equipment:

• Proper footwear (solid soles and no flip-flops) are required.
• Adult supervision required for children less than ten (10) years of age.
• Children must stay inside the playground equipment area at times and cannot venture into the parking lot.
• Gravel, mulch, stones, or other loose objects are NEVER to be picked up, kicked, or thrown for any reason. These materials cannot be removed from the playground area by the children.
• Food, beverages, and gum are not allowed on or near the playground equipment, as they can spill and cause a slipping hazard.
• No sticks or bats are allowed in the playground area.
• No hard balls such as golf balls or baseballs are allowed in the playground area.
• No ropes, twine, or string in the playground area, as these can become entangled around playground equipment and cause a choking hazard.
• The playground is only to be used during daylight hours unless properly illuminated and only during dry weather.
• No roller skates, rollerblades or skateboards are permitted near the equipment.
• All children are expected to take turns and share the equipment with other children.
• No one should jump off of high platforms or the top of swingsets or slides.

 

The rules for slides in particular might be as follows:
           

• Climb the ladder of the slide, never the slide itself.
• Go down the slide one at a time.
• Never go down the slide backward; always go down feet first.
• Slide inside the tunnel of any covered slide, do NOT climb on top.
• Do not stop or catch anyone at the bottom of the slide.

When you’ve determined what the playground equipment rules are for your public playground, have them printed on a permanent sign and post them where they can be clearly seen by all visitors.  Include a phone number so people with questions or concerns can reach someone in charge or report any problems.  This will minimize misunderstandings and let visitors know you’re doing your best to protect everyone’s safety.