Safety At Play

8 Pages 2093 Words

ipate in. Play aims to offer children the chance to encounter risks as they learn. In the words of the publication ‘Best Play’, play should aim to ‘manage the balance between the need to offer risk and the need to keep children safe from harm.’ (Best Play 2003).
In play situations, exposure to risk is seen as a benefit. It will satisfy human needs and gives children a chance to learn about the consequences of risk taking. If a child sustains or witnesses an injury, they will gain an experience of the consequences of their experience, actions and decisions. Through this an understanding is developed of the extent of their abilities and competence. It should be accepted that through play provision, children might be exposed to the risk of minor injuries such as bruises, grazes or sprains. It should also become knowledge that on the other hand, play should not expose children to serious injuries, which can cause death or permanent disability.
The main factor in restricting personal liberty is the fear of litigation. This is influencing many play providers t0 restrict activities in order to minimise the risk of injury. It can also be a different situation when adults are key carers for other people’s children. Opportunities for learning are sometimes restricted because of fears of what may happen if. Also fears of being blamed for an accident goes through the mind.
Children also learn from the adults in their surroundings. Adults are looked upon as a role model, teaching children morals and values, as well as skills such as talking through problem...