Tips for Playing Outdoors

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Tips for Playing Outdoors

Tips for Playing Outdoors

2024-04-01

Thank you for always doing an amazing job. Thanks to the great work of all of the CareFinder babysitters, we've received lots of positive feedback from many parents.

As the weather is getting warmer it’s the time of year that children will want to get out of the house and go to the playground. As you take advantage of the warmer weather and enjoy the outdoors we’d like to highlight some points that you’ll need to consider to ensure the safety of the children you are looking after.

Outdoor play is great for kids, it helps improve physical fitness and allows children to interact with nature, such as animals and plants. While outdoor play offers various benefits, it's important to remember that unlike indoors, anything can happen outdoors. Accidents can happen anywhere, during transportation or at the playground. So, it is important to always prioritize safety.

At playgrounds, it's necessary to either play with the child or closely watch them, depending on their age.

When watching children at the playground, be careful that they are always in your "line of sight," "audible range," and "reachable range." This can vary depending on the child’s age and level of activity. While outdoor play is fun, it's important to note that the most reported accidents occur on slides, followed by swings.

Points to Watch Regarding Slides

Typically, large slides in parks are designed for children aged 3 and above, so it might be challenging for infants to play alone. Some parks have smaller slides made of plastic or softer materials that can be enjoyed from around 1 and a half years old.

When using slides, always accompany the child instead of letting them play alone.

If a child finds it difficult to slide alone, please climb up and slide down together for support. Even if a child can play alone, it's essential to closely supervise the child while climbing stairs or sliding.

Points to Watch Regarding Swings

There are two types of swings: seat swings typically designed for children aged 3 and above, and basket swings designed for children aged 1 to 3. Parks have various types of swings, so choose the one suitable for the child's age to ensure safety.

When using swings, always accompany the child instead of letting them play alone.

Even if a child can sit securely on their own, there's a risk of accidentally letting go and falling from a seat swing if they're under 3 years old. For children who find it difficult to play alone, it's better to support them by holding them while swinging together.

During the summer, playground equipment can become very hot due to direct sunlight. Before allowing children to play, babysitters should ensure the equipment is safe to use.

Watch Out for Heatstroke

Check if there's shade available at the play area. Infants and young children have underdeveloped temperature regulation functions. Children might not notice changes in their body conditions while having fun outside, so it's important to take water breaks and provide enough fluid for the kids.

Before heading out, make sure parents provide the child's drinks, and make sure they are hydrated.

Additionally, when playing in parks or similar areas, be cautious of both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

When children are playing they may not realize they've run outside the park. Sometimes children chase a ball outside of the playground. So, make sure they are always in your sight.

Accidents

Even with thorough care during babysitting, accidents and injuries can occur. If this happens, remain calm, provide first aid if necessary, and immediately contact the parents.

It's crucial to exchange contact numbers with the parents before heading out. Once the child's situation has stabilized or after the babysitting session, please report any injuries or accidents to the Carefinder Support Team at 03-6825-0488.

If unable to reach us during non-business hours, please contact from the Contact Us form.

Outdoor play offers many stimulating experiences that can't be matched with indoor play.

Make sure you have fun with the children and enjoy age appropriate activities outdoors.

Feel free to ask if you need any further questions.

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