Kids have a great time running around the playground, but that joy is only possible when parents take the right steps before arriving. Running around the playground can be dangerous, but don’t worry— avoiding such situations is easier if you take the time to prepare responsibly. Explore these tips for preparing your kids for the playground so you can have more peace of mind, and your kids can have more fun.
Prepare With Proper Footwear Outdoors
A common tip parents will hear about toddler shoes is that flexibility is key for healthy development. That said, durability is still a key factor to look for in toddler footwear, especially before their first visit to the playground. If your child’s shoes aren’t playground ready, then it’s time for a new pair.
Assessing the most durable shoes for playground trips will help you find the perfect balance between flexibility and strength. The reason looking at durable shoe designs is so critical is that they are more versatile than you might assume and provide kids with the protection they need outdoors. Add durable toddler shoes to your child’s closet today so they can remain stable and comfortable during outdoor play.
Ensure They Have Safety Gear When Necessary
The right shoes will help kids have fun outdoors, but some activities require extra safety gear. For example, if bike riding is on the agenda for your playground trip, then double-check that you have all the essential equipment, such as helmets.
Does your child want to roller skate? If so, bring along knee pads and more safety tools. You should always have a checklist for playground visits to ensure you don’t overlook essentials, including first aid kits and water bottles. In doing so, you will set your kids up for success on the playground.
Remember To Balance Monitoring and Socializing
It may sound odd at first, but not every tip for preparing your kids for the playground is applicable before the first visit. This final tip is something you use on your first trip to help you and your child find the perfect playground rhythm—they know to explore within certain boundaries, and you know to stay vigilant at a distance.
The desire to constantly hover over your child during any playground visit is understandable due to the potential for accidents. However, playground time is perfect for letting children be active and have fun with other kids. So, take time to step back, and let your child have a bit of freedom to explore and socialize. Of course, we’re not saying you should hop on your phone and ignore the child entirely—it’s about finding the perfect balance. You can still monitor your child from afar when at the playground, so remain focused but not overbearing. Take these tips with you on the next playground trip for an exciting but safe experience.
