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TOPIC 9 OUTDOOR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT 
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be designed for multiple age groups and equipment should appropriate for children development. For instance:
(i) Playground area for toddlers can be equipped with smaller steps and crawl spaces or shorter slides less than four feet high;
(ii) PreschoolersÊ areas should have low platforms with short ladders or ramps with grips;
(iii) Equipment should made from durable materials and will not fall apart;
(iv) Swings should be set far enough from other play equipment so that children will not be hit by a moving swing; and
(v) There should be no nuts or screws protruding from equipment that could harm children.
(d) Adult Supervision
Experts estimate that nearly half of all playground injuries are related to inadequate adult supervision. Adults should be at the playground all the time, watching and monitoring children to prevent injuries. If there is more than one adult, split up so that each adult can watch the area from a different view. Ask children to remove scarves and clothing with drawstrings that can get caught or pose a strangulation hazard. Observe and teach children to follow safety rules such as not to walk or stay close to a moving swing, not to push other children, take turns on slide and go up the ladder one at a time.
9.3 MAINTAINING OUTDOOR AREAS
Outdoor play surfaces should represent a clean and safe environment for young children to play. Thus, the surfaces of outdoor areas for children should be in good shape. In order to preserve and maintain the outdoor play environment, maintenance needs to be carried out daily, monthly or annually. This is necessary as it can save cost in the long term. The following are a few areas that need to be considered to maintain outdoor environment. Landscape of outdoor playing area should be mowed, watered and tended. Sand needs to be replaced and playground equipment needs to be repaired or maintained frequently.
(a) Surfacing
For surfacing, check for:
• Any debris, compaction and depth;
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