Playground Safety Scenario Worksheet

Name: _____________________________

Instructions: Read each scenario carefully. For each scenario, identify the potential hazards or unsafe behaviors, and then propose solutions to make the situation safer for everyone. Use the space provided for your answers.

Scenario 1: The Broken Swing

During recess, you notice that one of the swings on the playground has a cracked seat and a loose chain. Younger students are still trying to use it.

Potential Hazards/Unsafe Behaviors:

Proposed Solutions:

Scenario 2: Rushing the Slide

At the top of a tall slide, you see a group of elementary school students pushing and shoving each other to be first. One child is trying to go down headfirst, and another is climbing up the slide instead of using the stairs.

Potential Hazards/Unsafe Behaviors:

Proposed Solutions:

Scenario 3: Wet & Wild

It recently rained, and parts of the playground are still wet, including the monkey bars and the ground under them. You see a few kids trying to play on the wet monkey bars, and others are running quickly on the damp wood chip surfacing.

Potential Hazards/Unsafe Behaviors:

Proposed Solutions:

Scenario 4: The Teen Takeover

Your group of friends from 9th grade decides to hang out at the local park, which has a playground primarily designed for younger children. Some of your friends start roughhousing on the smaller equipment and loudly talking over the younger kids who are also trying to play.

Potential Hazards/Unsafe Behaviors:

Proposed Solutions:

Discussion Guide: Safe Play Advocates

Instructions for Teacher: Use these prompts to facilitate a class discussion after students have completed the Playground Safety Scenario Worksheet. Encourage active participation and thoughtful reflection.

Part 1: Reflecting on Scenarios (Connecting to Worksheet)

1. Let's review the scenarios from the worksheet. What were some of the most common hazards or unsafe behaviors you identified across the different situations?
   
   
   
2. For Scenario 1 (The Broken Swing), what was your most practical solution for ensuring safety?
   
   
   
3. In Scenario 2 (Rushing the Slide), how did your group suggest handling the pushing and unsafe sliding?
   
   
   
4. Thinking about Scenario 3 (Wet & Wild), what was the immediate danger, and what steps should be taken before playing on wet equipment?
   
   
   
5. In Scenario 4 (The Teen Takeover), what responsibilities do older students have when using playgrounds designed for younger children? How can they be respectful and safe role models?
   
   
   

Part 2: Becoming a Safety Advocate (Broader Impact)

1. Beyond just identifying problems, how can we, as a community, ensure playgrounds remain safe and fun spaces for everyone?
   
   
   
2. What is the role of adults and caregivers in preventing playground injuries? What about the role of older siblings or friends?
   
   
   
3. Imagine you are designing a brand new playground. What three safety features would be absolutely essential, and why?
   
   
   
4. How can you, as 9th-grade students, be an advocate for playground safety in your own neighborhoods or schools? Think about what actions you could take or messages you could share.
   
   
   
5. What is one thing you learned today that you will remember the next time you are near a playground, whether playing or observing?