The authors point out a basic contradiction: On one hand, we want to keep children as safe as possible; On the other, they suggest, learning to take risks is a normal part of childhood and child development. In Norway, research has shown that early-childhood education and care (ECEC) practitioners have, in the past, taken a permissive approach to…

The paper presents information pertaining to both equipment and human factors associated with playground safety for the handicapped. Research is reviewed on injuries related to public playground equipment, the equipment/user interface, and accommodation of equipment for all children. Noted among findings are that 72% of all reported injuries were…

Parents can take an active role in preventing children's injuries by educating themselves about playground safety. The article suggests that parents make a playground safety check; be sure the equipment is suitable for the age group in question; supervise appropriately; and know each child's capabilities. (SM)

Offers suggestions for the careful purchase or construction of swimming pools, playground equipment and tents, and for their safe use and maintenance in order to prevent serious injuries or fatalities in young children. (ED)

Though efforts to improve playground safety are consistent and ongoing, there has been no significant reduction in the rate of serious injuries. The article lists factors to consider when designing a safe playground, emphasizing the risk-taking inherent in children's play. (SM)

Argues that there are three areas to evaluate when creating safer playgrounds for children: environment, supervision, and education. Discusses the importance of safe and properly installed equipment, resilient surfacing, removal of hazards, proper maintenance, appropriate adult-to-child ratio, and enforcement of proper playground safety and injury…

This collection of seven articles focuses on playgrounds, looking at such issues as the importance of play in child development, playground injuries and safety (including international playground safety), community playground improvement projects, and shock-absorbing playground surfaces. (SM)

This collection of seven articles examines the issue of playground safety, focusing on recent trends and mandates in playground safety; treated wood on playgrounds; safe playgrounds for infants and toddlers; achieving a safe ratio of adults to children; soft contained playgrounds; certified playground-safety inspectors; and playground injuries in…

This article describes aspects of the environment for children in Sweden and discusses some of the measures taken or planned for improvement. The significance of the residential environment is explored, and the nature of the child care system in a country where over 80 percent of women with small children work outside the home is described. Also…