PlayQuest Recreation

Today is International Day of Families and this year’s focus is “Families, Inequalities, and Child Wellbeing.” Family plays one of, if not, the most important role in a child’s social development. Households without adequate support systems, especially those with young children, are more likely to face setbacks or risk experiencing poverty which can have long-term impacts on a child’s health, education, and wellbeing. Inequalities such as gender, race, and disability can further compound these challenges.

Playgrounds are one of the few places where children can interact freely with others and the main goal is having fun together and developing their skills. They offer an unrestricted meeting place for communities to come together and support each other. For communities that are underfunded or underserved, there are grants available that can provide the means to building or improving these spaces, and we can help: https://playquest.ca/planning/playground-grants-and-funding/

The end of National Playground Safety Week doesn’t mean it’s time to play recklessly! Safety is an everyday practice, no matter what age or time of year, which leads us to our last tip – age-appropriate equipment.

Not every child grows or develops at the same rate and using equipment that is suitable for their mental and physical capabilities can help prevent injuries while supporting their motor skills and muscle strength. Playgrounds are built to cater to the typical needs, likes, and abilities of certain age ranges, but it’s up to the supervising grownup to determine whether or not something is safe for the child and be there to assist them when they are ready to try equipment that’s new to them.

As kids get older, they can also be taught safer techniques to help break their falls like tucking and rolling so when they do play on bigger, new or unknown equipment, they can potentially prevent injuries or concussions.

Summer is just around the corner which means more daylight for play. Remember your safety tips as you get outside more and most importantly, have fun!