by Christy Laverty
The sun is shining and the playground is calling. You load up the stroller and the kids.
Drinks? Check.
Extra diaper? Check.
Snacks? Check.
Hat and sunscreen? Check. And you’re off.
But hold on there. Playgrounds can be intimidating places. And if you think I mean for the kids, you would be wrong. Kids get it. Play wild and free- what kid doesn’t know that? (Well, actually I’m sure we all know or have seen a few of those.) But for parents, playgrounds can be places of long-lost memories, and unclear boundaries. Unfortunately the rules of the playground aren’t posted. Everyone is expected to know. And we all know that isn’t always the case.
There is no doubt park play is a microcosm of the world. It is often where kids learn essential life-long social skills. Melissa Leonard is a certified business etiquette and international protocol consultant. She is also a mother of two. While she has worked with a number of Fortune 100 corporations, she also offers help and advice on etiquette for kids.
Leonard has come up with a simple list of dos and don’ts to help parents, and kids, navigate the playground.
*DO keep an eye on your child: It is your responsibility as a parent/caregiver to watch for dangerous play, not sharing and hitting.
*DO share: The playground is a free for all in terms of pails, shovels, and chalk. Once an item arrives, it is fair game. Teach your child to share, not grab and ask permission before using something.
*DO intervene: If you see a child doing something dangerous, don’t assume his caregiver/parent is watching. Help to remind the child that their behaviour is dangerous and find the parent/caregiver to let them know.
*DO pay attention: You don’t want to be that parent who has the child who runs wild, grabs, and throws sand and bullies.
*DON’T be a playground gossip: The playground can be like high school. Stay out of the gossip because you don’t want to be labeled a trouble-maker.
*DON’T get mad when older kids hog the equipment: If it seems like older kids may knock over your child, go over and say, “We’ll come back on the jungle gym when you are done playing,” and take your child and engage him elsewhere.
*DON’T assume: There are three sides to the story – each child’s version and then the truth. Don’t assume your child did nothing wrong.
Leonard says it is important to remember kids often become territorial at playgrounds. The fun and excitement of it all can cause simple manners to go out the window.
Parents/caregivers often see the playground as their break, a way for kids to keep busy while adults catch up with other mothers and have some quiet time. Leonard says you want to stay focused and remember, in regards to conflicts, it is not who is right, but what is right.
According to Safe Kids Canada an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 Canadian children need medical attention every year for playground injuries. More than 1,700 children are hospitalized. Eighteen playground deaths have been reported since 1982. So it is important to keep your eyes on your kids, and all kids at the playground. The idea is for everyone to have a good time – kids and parents.
Let’s face it: playgrounds let kids be kids. And give parents a sweet glimpse into their child’s world and maybe even bring back fond memories of days gone by when they ran wild and carefree in the neighbourhood playground.
Christy Laverty is a mother and an editor for a Toronto all news radio station. She also does freelance writing for several parenting magazines. Visit Christy’s blog where she updates the trials, tribulations, and fun of being mom of two beautiful girls.
