Supervision Guidelines
Playgrounds that are designed, installed and properly maintained in accordance with the safety
guidelines and standards can still present hazards to children in the absence of adequate adult
supervision. Component Playgrounds recommends the following guidelines for supervision of
children while the playground is in use.
• Children should not use this equipment without adult supervision.
• Children should be directed to age appropriate activities. Not all equipment is
appropriate for all children who may use the playground.
• Pre-school children require more direct supervision than older children.
• Do not permit the use of wet, icy, or snowy equipment as slips, falls or loss of grip may
occur.
• Constantly observe the children while at play. Note play patterns and possible
hazardous play or overcrowding. Take immediate steps to stop hazardous play or to
control overcrowding.
• Children should not be allowed to jump off equipment when dismounting, as it is a
dangerous practice to jump on or off playground equipment.
• Children should not wear loose clothing, hoods, bicycle or other helmets, drawstrings,
or jewelry while using the playground equipment. These and other loose items not listed
could present a strangulation or entanglement hazard.
• Children should not use playground equipment bare footed and should be required to
wear shoes and socks at all times while using the playground equipment.
