What to look for:

Playgrounds should be safe. Your local playground should have safety-tested mats or loose-fill materials (shredded rubber, sand, wood chips, bark). This type of surface absorbs the impact of a fall or jump. And, equipment should be maintained. Make sure your child cannot reach any moving part that might pinch or trap their body. Swings should have 16 feet of clear area in front and behind with 6 feet free on each side.

If your local playground does not meet these safety guidelines, you can do something about it. Alert your local government that the playground is not safe. All children deserve a safe place to play and be active.

Check with your local community to see if your area has a community pool.

What to do:

Play! Children love climbing structures and playgrounds. Allow your child to explore the playground while you keep a safe eye on them. Encourage them to play with other children.

Many local parks also have large grassy areas where children can play. This includes running, tumbling, throwing, and catching.

Let your child decide how they want to play on the playground. Follow your child’s lead and play their way. You do not need to suggest activities or games. Instead, let them explore and be active!

If possible check for swimming lessons at your local community pool.

What to look for:

If you can, try and find a dog park you can walk to! Then, the whole family can walk together to the dog park. At the park, be aware of your surroundings. Keep your young child safe around others’ dogs. Make sure other people's dogs are friendly before allowing your child to get near them.

What to do:

Play with your pup! Dog parks are a great place for dogs to socialize, and for families to meet. Let your dog run and play while enjoying the fresh air. Even when you are not at the dog park, your young child can play with your dog. That way they both can be active!

What to look for:

Look for a park near you! Enter “county park near me” into your internet search engine such as Google, Bing, or Internet Explorer. Or, enter “county park near” and then type in your zip code. You can do the same for state parks! For national parks, this website can help. (Note: This link will open in a new tab.)

What to do:

County, state, and national parks offer larger recreational areas for all kinds of activities. Hiking, camping, swimming, and even kayaking may be possible!  These large sized parks are great for families and groups of all types to escape the everyday and enjoy nature.