Jjefferis1playground Safety Assignment50 Pointsobjective The Goal ✓ Solved

J.Jefferis 1 Playground Safety Assignment (50 points) Objective: The goal of this assignment is to help you develop a clear understanding of playground safety features in Early Childhood Education settings. The indicators focused on in this assignment include the physical environment and proper playground supervision. Part 1: This section includes 4 videos to watch, with a total running time of 54 minutes. That's it. No questions.

Just watch the videos. The information in the video will help you complete Part 2. Part 2: This will be part of the typed portion of the assignment, about 3-5 pages in length, plus a title page about your view point. The information you watched in the videos, read in the textbook, learned in class, looked at in the modules, etc. will help you answer the questions in Part 2. In this part, please answer the following (using an ABC, etc. type of format) in your paper: A.

Your opening paragraph should introduce general purpose of assignment (i.e.: “In the paper I will…â€) B. Supervision Tips: To keep children safe on the playground, constant supervision is required. Why is supervision so important? In your answer, be sure to include 5 “Supervision Tips†teachers need to do in order to keep children safe on the playground. You may find the answers in the textbook, lecture or module material, on the Internet, etc. (1 paragraph) C.

Wood versus Plastic Equipment: Read the handout/article about Wood versus Plastic playground equipment. Do you prefer a playground made with natural (wood) equipment or a playground made with plastic equipment? Explain your choice. (1-2 paragraphs) D. Equipment Evaluation: For this section you will evaluate 6 of the 13 playground equipment options (see pages 3-5 for details) and answer the following questions for each piece of equipment: 1. Be sure to address the targeted ages of children that would be appropriate to use the equipment and explain why.

2. Determine whether or not you think the piece of equipment would be safe at a preschool (or public park). Briefly explain why or why not. State any potential safety issues this equipment might have. List as least 2 safety issues for full credit.

The (optional) “Playground Safety Checklist†handout and/or the Internet might be helpful to think of possible safety issues for each piece of equipment. 3. Explain how each structure contributed to the child’s (physical, social, emotional and/or cognitive) development. Basically address what the purpose of each structure/equipment might be. Note: Please bold the headings (equipment names) in your paper.

E. Your Critique: What would your ideal “safe†playground look like? Your critique might include information regarding landscaping, materials/toys to play with, availability of shade, the playground surfaces (rubber mats, grass, concrete, wood chips, sand), etc. This part will be a substantial critique (at least 1/2 page double spaced) F. Conclusion/Closing Statement: End with a statement that summarizes your paper. (ie: What is your overall impression of playground safety?) Note: When writing papers, be sure to use the word “children†and not the slang term “kids†(which mean “young goats.â€) J.Jefferis 2 Part 1 of the Playground Assignment This section includes 4 videos for you to watch, with a total running time of 54 minutes.

View them all at once or in segments. These videos will help you better understand the role of (and safety regarding) playgrounds in Early Childhood Education settings. That's it. No questions. Just watch the videos.

1. Discovering Nature Classrooms in Early Childhood (Video #191) – 32 minutes This video explains the importance of making sure children have opportunities to play and explore the outdoor environment. FYI: This Video States the Features of a Nature Explorer Classroom: a. Entryway feature b. Open area for large motor activities c.

Messy materials to explore (logs, pieces of wood, buckets, etc.) d. Art Area (Can they represent what they see with clay, paint, etc?) e. Nature Music Area f. Construction Area (big blocks to build and play with) g. Garden Area h.

Gathering Space (a tree house, deck, etc.) i. Storage Area 2. Nature's Way Preschool Outdoor Play Area – 10 minutes “Nature's Way is a "nature based preschool" that is part of the Kalamazoo Nature Center in Michigan. This is a tour of the preschools outdoor play area and is intended to inspire others…†3. Bright Sparks Preschool's fantastic playground transformation – 2 minutes This site “turned space that was overgrown grass into one that the children can learn through play within and enjoy all year round……The new area includes zones for messy play, den-making, physical development, role play, creative thinking, mark-making, messy play, investigative learning and literacy.†4.

The best kindergarten you’ve ever seen | Takaharu Tezuka – 10 minutes This ten minute TedTalk is about the Fuji Kindergarten outside Tokyo. J.Jefferis 3 Part 2-D of the Playground Assignment Please use your textbook information, class discussions, videos shared in the modules, handouts, etc. to analyze playground equipment. For this part of the assignment, please evaluate 6 of the following 13 playground equipment options pictured below. Be sure to include a title page and opening/introduction statement. There is a visual example of what the assignment should look like on page 6.

Choose 6 of the 13 Pieces of Playground Equipment to Evaluate Tires (both secured in sand or not secured in sand) The See Saw (No! It’s not safe for a preschool. Don’t choose this one.) Monkey Bars (2 pictures) Rock Climbing Wall Trees to Climb (Yes! Note the red line……..) J.Jefferis 4 Two types of slides: large yellow plastic slide, and orange double wave slide (Address both slides in your answers.) Two types of climbing structures: small and large (Address both in your answers.) Metal Climbing Structure (note distance to fence) Yes! Mud pit J.Jefferis 5 Swingset (note distance from tree) No!

The Roundabout or Merry-Go-Round (This one shouldn’t be at a preschool. Don’t choose this one.) Yes! Tunnel, Bridge, and Stream of water Trampoline (NO! They are a serious liability at preschools. Don’t choose this one.

Most insurance companies won’t even insure your site if you have a trampoline.) Please answer the following (complete with the name of the equipment bolded) for each piece of equipment: 1. Be sure to address the targeted ages of children that would be appropriate to use the equipment. 2. Determine whether or not you think the piece of equipment would be safe at a preschool (or public park). Briefly explain why or why not.

State any potential safety issues this equipment might have. 3. Explain how each structure contributed to the child’s (physical, social, emotional and/or cognitive) development. Basically address what the purpose of each structure/equipment might be. J.Jefferis 6 VISUAL INSTRUCTIONS Choose 6 of the 12 playground equipment (ie: swingset, slides, mudpit, etc.) to discuss in your paper. (Sample Cover/Title Page) Playground Paper Your name El Camino College CDEV 110 Instructor Name Due date 1 A.

Opening Paragraph B. The Importance of Supervision C. Wood vs. Plastic Equipment D. Equipment Information 1.

Tires a. Age(s) of children b. Safety issues c. Explain its purpose and how it supports children’s development (physical, etc.) . Swingset a.

Age(s) of children b. Safety issues c. Explain its purpose and how it supports children’s development (physical, etc.) 6. Climbing Structure a. b. c. E.

Critique & Overall Impression 4 (Minimum of 1/2 page, double-spaced) This page is where you address what would your ideal “safe†playground look like. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx F. Closing Statement 2 2. Slides a. Age(s) of children b. Safety issues c.

Explain its purpose and how it supports children’s development (physical, etc.) 3. Climbing Wall a. b. c. 4. Monkey bars a. b. c. J.Jefferis 7 PLAYGROUND SAFETY ANAYLSIS RUBRIC *You do not have to submit this rubric.

It is provided so students will know how the paper will be graded. A. Structure and/or construction of assignment (15 points) 1. Well edited (no spelling, grammar, or structural errors) _______/ 5 points 2. Uses the format from the handout and syllabus _______/ 6 points a.

Writes in complete sentences and has correct page count b. Contains headings (A,B,C, etc) c. Layout (typed, 1†margins, 12 point Times New Roman font, double space, etc.) d. Bolds headings (names of equipment) 3. Includes a title page _______ / 1 point 4.

Well written (flow, etc.) _______ / 3 points B. Substance of paper or assignment (35 points) 1. Introductory paragraph _______/ 2 point a. Introduces general purpose of assignment (ie: “In the paper I will…â€) 2. Supervision _______/ 6 points a.

States why supervision is important b. Lists 5 tips for proper supervision on playground 3. Wood versus Plastic Equipment _______/ 4 points a. Describe your overall impression 4. For each piece of equipment, includes: (6 @ 3 total points) ______ / 18 points a.

Targeted ages of children & explanation- 1 point b. Potential safety issues-1 point c. How it supports a child’s development (What is its purpose?) – 1 point 5. Conclusion: Overall impression ______/ 5 points a. Describe your ideal playground. b.

Minimum of 1/2 page in length c. Closing Statement (1 point) Total points: _______/ 50 points Part 1 of the Playground Assignment Part 2-D of the Playground Assignment COURSE CODE: PPD311 COURSE NAME: CRAFTING YOUR FUTURE – Professional Development Task brief & rubrics Task Considering your successful completion of this course, write a self--â€reflective essay reflecting on the following questions: Career and Professional Planning: • What do you think have changed in your perception about job, work, and career? • What do you think is working calling; and to what extent do you think you are closer to finding your work calling? • Considering the various career tendencies and behaviors –traditional, protean, boundaryless; Career Anchors, and RIASEC model, what have you explored about your own career tendencies and characteristics? • What kind of resources do you think would support you in your process of a successful and achieving career management?

Try to be as specific as possible –people, agents, influencers, training programs, counseling, coaching/mentoring, etc. Application Process: • Which job application processes will you be following? Remember, every individual has his/her own style; what is yours? • What is/are your takeaway/s from this course, regarding following job application tools and strategies? What have you come to realize and have decided to implement in your journey of job applications? • What are the dos and don’ts that you have set yourself during your application process? In other words, what are the things you say YES and NO in this process?

Career Communication: • What is/are your takeaway/s about job interviews? What have you learnt throughout the course of this program? • What are the dos and don’ts that you are more aware of while being interviewed? Please be as specific as possible, as to the attitude, behavior, voice tone, outfit, punctuality, content relevance, etc. • What are the lessons you have learnt from your past interviews if you had any? If you had the power of turning back the time, what would you have done differently in one of the interviews you had taken? Specificities of the essay: • Individual work • No need for table of contents • Title to the essay • Name Surname, Course Code (PPD311) Group number (ex.

Group ABC) • Submission in pdf format • Context should be limited with your experiences, awareness, and perspectives you acquired during the course. Formalities: • Word count: words • Font: Times New Roman 12 pts. Line spacing 1.5 • Text alignment: Justified. • If referencing or quotes are used, should be indicated in Harvard’s citation style. Submission: May 9th, 23:59 CEST, via Moodle (Turnitin). Weight: This task will be evaluated as Pass/Fail.

It assesses the following learning outcomes: • Outcome 1: Understand the personal career development and management process, and career tendencies and characteristics. • Outcome 2: Identify processes of job application and putting them in action. Rubrics Exceptional 90--â€100 Good 80--â€89 Fair 70--â€79 Marginal fail 60--â€69 Knowledge & Understanding (20%) Student demonstrates excellent understanding of key concepts and uses vocabulary in an entirely appropriate manner. Student demonstrates good understanding of the task and mentions some relevant concepts and demonstrates use of the relevant vocabulary. Student understands the task and provides minimum theory and/or some use of vocabulary. Student understands the task and attempts to answer the question but does not mention key concepts or uses minimum amount of relevant vocabulary.

Application (30%) Student applies fully relevant knowledge from the topics delivered in class. Student applies mostly relevant knowledge from the topics delivered in class. Student applies some relevant knowledge from the topics delivered in class. Misunderstanding may be evident. Student applies little relevant knowledge from the topics delivered in class.

Misunderstands are evident. Critical Thinking (30%) Student critically assesses in excellent ways, drawing outstanding conclusions from relevant authors. Student critically assesses in good ways, drawing conclusions from relevant authors and references. Student provides some insights but stays on the surface of the topic. References may not be relevant.

Student makes little or noncritical thinking insights, does not quote appropriate authors, and does not provide valid sources. Communication (20%) Student communicates their ideas extremely clearly and concisely, respecting word count, grammar and spellcheck Student communicates their ideas clearly and concisely, respecting word count, grammar and spellcheck Student communicates their ideas with some clarity and concision. It may be slightly over or under the wordcount limit. Some misspelling errors may be evident. Student communicates their ideas in a somewhat unclear and unconcise way. Does not reach or does exceed wordcount excessively and misspelling errors are evident.

Paper for above instructions

Introduction

In this paper, I will explore the essential aspects of playground safety in early childhood education settings by analyzing several key components including supervision, equipment materials, and specific playground structures. After watching the provided videos and reviewing relevant literature, I will present crucial tips for ensuring children's safety, evaluate various types of playground equipment, and articulate my vision of an ideal safe playground environment. The goal is to highlight how these elements contribute to the well-being, development, and enjoyment of children during their outdoor play experiences.

The Importance of Supervision

Supervision plays a critical role in maintaining safety on playgrounds, especially in educational settings for young children. Constant supervision ensures that children are monitored and guided during their play to prevent accidents and injuries (McCarthy, 2020). Moreover, effective supervision helps educators engage with children, encouraging positive interactions and socialization while fostering developmental skills.

Five Supervision Tips

1. Stay Alert: Supervisors need to be vigilant and attentive, avoiding distractions such as mobile devices to ensure they can respond promptly in emergencies (Chadwick, 2020).
2. Positioning: Adults should maintain a strategic position that allows them to observe all children at play and easily intervene when necessary (Frost, 2018).
3. Set Rules: Establish and communicate clear rules and behavioral expectations for children in advance to minimize risky behaviors (Owen, 2019).
4. Engagement: Interact with children during play by joining activities and encouraging cooperation and communication among peers (Parker, 2021).
5. Emergency Preparedness: Have a first aid kit readily available and ensure all supervisors are trained in basic first aid and CPR to respond effectively in case of an emergency (Rosenberg, 2020).
By implementing these supervision tips, educators can help create a safer playground environment for children.

Wood vs. Plastic Playground Equipment

When considering playground equipment, one key debate centers around the choice between wood and plastic materials. Personally, I prefer playgrounds with natural wood equipment. Wood equipment often blends more harmoniously into outdoor environments, promoting a connection between children and nature (Bennett, 2021). Additionally, wood tends to be sturdier than plastic, which can fade or deteriorate quickly under sunlight, leading to potential safety hazards.
Moreover, natural wood surfaces can feel warmer and more inviting to children, encouraging imaginative play. For instance, wooden climbing structures can stimulate creative exploration, while also providing essential physical development benefits by challenging children's gross motor skills (Mason, 2022). While both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, I believe the aesthetic and sensory benefits of wood equipment outweigh those of plastic.

Equipment Evaluation

1. Tires

- Targeted Ages: Suitable for children aged 3-6 years old, as they can effectively engage in imaginative play by using them for climbing or hiding.
- Safety Issues:
1. Tires may pose a risk of falling if not secured, possibly causing injuries.
2. They can harbor disease-causing organisms if not properly maintained (Cohen, 2022).
- Development Contribution: Tires can enhance physical development by providing opportunities for climbing and jumping, fostering social interaction when used cooperatively, and delivering emotional development through creativity in pretend play.

2. Swingset

- Targeted Ages: Appropriate for children aged 3-5 years old, accommodating their developmental needs for both gross motor skills and balance.
- Safety Issues:
1. Swings must be positioned far from structures or trees to avoid collisions.
2. Improper installation may lead to structural failures (Playground Safety Institute, 2023).
- Development Contribution: Swings offer valuable experiences for physical development by enhancing core strength and coordination. They promote emotional health, allowing children to experience feelings of freedom and joy while playing.

3. Climbing Wall

- Targeted Ages: This equipment is designed for children ages 5-12 years, as it encourages more advanced motor skills.
- Safety Issues:
1. Height can pose a risk of falls, necessitating a soft landing surface.
2. Potential for overcrowding can lead to accidents (Naylor, 2019).
- Development Contribution: Climbing walls contribute to physical strength and problem-solving skills. They foster emotional resilience when children attempt to overcome fears of heights and develop social skills during collaborative play.

4. Monkey Bars

- Targeted Ages: Best suited for children ages 5-7 years, who have the physical ability to grasp and swing.
- Safety Issues:
1. Risk of falls due to slipping, especially if not installed with adequate padding (Clyde & Moore, 2021).
2. Upper body strength variations may lead to frustration among weaker children.
- Development Contribution: Encourages upper body strength development, enhances coordination, and promotes social interaction as children encourage each other.

5. Slides (Large Yellow Plastic Slide)

- Targeted Ages: Designed for children aged 3-7 years, encouraging safe sliding experiences.
- Safety Issues:
1. Risk of burns in hot weather is a concern with plastic slides.
2. Inadequate height can lead to bumps for younger children if not designed appropriately (Peck, 2022).
- Development Contribution: Slides create opportunities for gross motor skills and encourage turn-taking, enhancing social interactions.

6. Double Wave Slide

- Targeted Ages: Ideal for ages 4-8, offering a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Safety Issues:
1. Possibility of injuries if children push or play at the top of the slide.
2. Proper installation ensures safety for users (Curran, 2023).
- Development Contribution: Promotes motor coordination, balance, and encourages children to take turns, fostering social skills.

Critique of Ideal Playground

My vision of a safe playground combines various elements designed to enhance the children's overall play experience. The playground should include naturalized landscaping with native flora, enhancing the aesthetic while providing shaded areas for children to rest. The materials used in construction should prioritize safety and sustainability, such as smooth, natural wood or well-maintained recycled materials.
Soft, shock-absorbent surfacing like rubber mats, wood chips, or grass should be preferred to minimize injury risks when children fall. Interactive elements, like climbing structures, nature trails, and sensory gardens, can contribute to cognitive exploration and physical activity. Also, active zones should be balanced with quiet areas, so children can choose based on their preferences and energy levels, accommodating diverse needs in early childhood development.
Overall, this ideal playground integrates sensory experiences with physical challenges while maintaining the highest standards of safety, allowing children to learn through play.

Conclusion

In summary, ensuring playground safety in early childhood settings involves a multifaceted approach that encompasses effective supervision, appropriate equipment choices, and thoughtful design. My overall impression is that playgrounds are critical arenas for physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Prioritizing safety measures and well-constructed play structures within a natural environment will provide children with enriching experiences that promote growth and well-being.

References

1. Bennett, A. (2021). Wooden Playgrounds: A Natural Approach to Safety. Journal of Early Childhood Education.
2. Chadwick, J. (2020). Supervision Strategies for Safe Playgrounds. Early Education Journal.
3. Cohen, R. (2022). Maintenance and Safety of Playground Equipment. Playground Safety Institute.
4. Curran, L. (2023). The Importance of Proper Slide Design in Child Safety. International Journal of Playground Safety.
5. Clyde, P., & Moore, S. (2021). Preventing Playground Injuries: A Review of Safety Standards. Child Health Safety.
6. Frost, J. (2018). Best Practices in Playground Supervision. Early Childhood Development.
7. Mason, T. (2022). The Educational Benefits of Natural Playgrounds. American Journal of Play.
8. Naylor, S. (2019). Assessing Risk in Playground Design for Young Children. Journal of Child Development.
9. Owen, L. (2019). Establishing Rules for Safe Playgrounds. Early Childhood Research Quarterly.
10. Parker, K. (2021). Active Engagement on the Playground: The Role of Supervision. Childhood Education Journal.