State of Florida Playground Safety

Before considering anything else about a child care facility, safety comes first. The same applies to any playground used by children. Consider factors like the safety of your playground equipment, the square footage of your playground and following any protocols for any inspection of your playground.

Playground Equipment

• All facilities must provide equipment that is appropriate for the age and physical development of children. Therefore, playground equipment must also be conducive to any physical activities implemented in the facility's curriculum.

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Playground Square Footage

• According to the 2009 Florida Statutes, facilities holding a valid license on October 1, 1992 must have at least 45 square feet of usable outdoor play for each child. Following this standard protects children from injury and allows children to have breathing room while playing.

Inspections

• The state of Florida childcare licensing agency has a right to perform an inspection of the playground and any other parts of the facility. An inspector may schedule an appointment with you, or drop by without notice. Either way the inspector will show up at a reasonable time during normal business hours to ensure that you are in compliance. Inspectors look for you to be following any and all standards that protect the children, so it's wise to always keep you playground equipment in good and safe condition.