Supervising Children Outdoors

Outdoor Supervision

• Outdoor play demands heightened supervision due to the active nature of outdoor play.
• Adult-to-child ratios must be strictly adhered to at all times.
• Educators should have means to communicate with other adults without leaving children unattended (e.g., walkie-talkies, dedicated cell phones).

Effective Supervision

• Playground equipment should be strategically arranged to ensure visual contact with all children.
• Eliminate blind spots (e.g., tunnels, corners, large stones, enclosed structures).
• Position adults to oversee all areas comprehensively, avoiding clustering together.
• Balance engagement with children and broader supervision.

Strategies for Active Outdoor Supervision

• Strategic positioning: place supervisors at specific points to ensure clear lines of sight to all areas.
• Zone defense method: divide the playground into distinct zones, each assigned to a specific supervisor.
• Dynamic supervision: actively engage with children by moving around and interacting with them throughout the playground.

Playground Safety Inspections

• Conduct thorough and regular inspections of playground equipment.
• Focus on equipment specifics, practical inspections, and surface safety.
• Inspectors should be knowledgeable about equipment design, function, and potential hazards.

Key Safety Considerations

• Wet equipment: check for slippery surfaces, especially after rain or cleaning.
• Hot equipment: test surfaces before use, especially on sunny days, and consider shaded areas or adjusting playtime schedules.
• Educate children on safe playground practices and report potential hazards.

Emergency Procedures and Injury Response

• Ensure all individuals supervising children on playgrounds have basic first aid knowledge.
• Establish clear procedures for responding to emergencies, including contacting emergency services and communicating essential information.
• Train staff on keeping injured children calm and secure until help arrives.