Children with learning and thinking differences may have challenges with social rules and common playground problems with equipment. This guide outlines common problems they may face and provides solutions to help them cope with these situations.
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By understanding these difficulties, you can better help your child enjoy a safe and fun playground.
Understanding Common Playground Problems
Understanding common playground problems involves recognizing the challenges and barriers children may face while playing. These can range from safety issues associated with equipment such as broken swings or slides, to social conflicts such as bullying or difficulty sharing._
By being aware of these potential problems, parents, carers and teachers can take proactive steps to ensure that playgrounds remain safe, welcoming places where all children can play, learn and grow together. Understanding the impact of playground design and safety can significantly influence the way these spaces are used, helping to create better, more inclusive environments for every child to enjoy their time at the playground.
This knowledge enables us to make informed decisions that enhance the overall experience and benefits of playgrounds for all children.
6 common playground problems
1. Being bullied or witnessing bullying
Children with learning and thinking differences are more likely to be bullied. Bullying is different from occasional teasing because it happens repeatedly and tends to be more severe.
This behaviour can include harsh name-calling, threats, deliberately excluding someone, and even physical aggression such as hitting or pushing. Understanding the effects of bullying can help us support and protect these children in their school environment, making sure they feel safe with other children in the classroom and among other students.
How to help
Teach your child to speak up confidently and seek help from a trusted adult if they feel threatened. Role-playing different scenarios at home can prepare them to act decisively.
2. Dealing with winning or losing
Children who struggle to control their impulses and manage their emotions may brag when they win, making others feel bad when they lose. Similarly, if they lose a game, they may become agitated, often accusing others of cheating.
This behaviour can lead to conflict and hurt feelings on the playground. Understanding and resolving these reactions can help to create a more supportive and inclusive playground by promoting impulse control and modelling appropriate behaviour.
How to help
Emphasis the fun in participation rather than winning. Discuss feelings and sportsmanship, praising efforts rather than results, to build resilience and a positive mindset.
3. Accessibility Issues
Accessibility issues are a significant concern in playgrounds. Every child has the right to enjoy and explore playgrounds, but unfortunately, not all playgrounds are accessible to children with disabilities.
This lack of access can prevent these children from participating in play and interacting with their peers, which is important for social development. It is essential to advocate for and support the development of inclusive playgrounds, ensuring that all children, regardless of their physical abilities, can join in the fun and learning that playgrounds provide.
How to Help
Advocate for inclusive playgrounds that take into account the needs of all children, regardless of their physical abilities. Support initiatives aimed at improving playground accessibility in your community. Inclusive design makes playgrounds better for everyone.
Sports Yodha, we have over 15+ years of experience building accessible playgrounds that meet everyone’s needs. Our award-winning designs help create playgrounds that the whole community can enjoy and appreciate.
4. Not taking turns or following instructions
On the playground, children need to share, take turns playing, and talk with others. For children with learning and thinking differences, this can be challenging.
They may find this difficult because things like paying attention, reading social cues, and understanding what’s going on around them take time. These struggles can make normal playground activities more complicated for them.
How to help
Encourage your child to be patient and explain how taking turns can make play more fun for everyone. Lead by example—children often copy the behavior of adults.
5. Not wanting to play with other children
Spending time on the playground is about developing social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and engaging in conversation. Your child may feel they need help to start talking to others or join in a game.
Sometimes, they don’t even realize when other children invite them to play. This confusion can make it challenging for them to make friends.
How to help
Build their confidence through small, supervised playdates to make them more comfortable interacting with other children. Gradually, they will find it easier to interact in larger groups.
6. Equipment Safety Concerns
Equipment safety concerns in playgrounds are critical issues that require immediate attention. Worn-out swings and broken slides are more than just an inconvenience; they pose serious safety risks to children.
The presence of such damaged equipment increases the risk of accidents and injuries, which can be serious. Therefore, it is essential to address these issues promptly and efficiently to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all children using the playground.
How to Help
Before letting your child play, always check the playground equipment for any signs of damage. If you find anything wrong, report it to the local authorities or the school’s management to get it fixed quickly.
Sports Yodha can handle inspections to ensure your playground meets CSA standards. After checking, we’ll give you a detailed report with measurements, photos, and any risks we find. This helps ensure your playground is safe and meets all requirements.
Building Safer Playgrounds with Sports Yodha
Playgrounds should be a safe haven of joy and creativity, where every child can explore and grow.
This approach helps every child leave the playground with happy memories and valuable life lessons learned through play. Joining in this ongoing effort to improve playground safety and accessibility means that time spent on swings and slides is fun and beneficial for all.
At Sports Yodha, we have over 20 years of experience building safe, exciting playgrounds that meet CSA standards. We offer a wide range of playground equipment, from standard to fully custom options, all designed to fit any theme or budget.
Trust us to handle everything from design to installation, making the process seamless. Contact us and relax while we create a great playground.
