Six years ago, my Second Son fell from a monkey bar.   He had a surgery that repaired the broken bones in his right forearm.  The surgeon affixed three metal pins – the length of a ballpen – in his forearm.  These pens are to align his broken bones.

Just last week, we visited the playground where he fell.  The place was still the same.  The swing was still there, same with the seesaw.  And yes, the old monkey bar was still there.

Then I asked myself.  How many children already met an accident playing at that playground?  Probably a dozen or a hundred.  Or perhaps only my son.  But that doesn’t dismiss the fact that an accident occurred there and still might happen if no necessary safety measure is applied.  How I wish the subdivision officers would install a playground flooring within the area like an artificial grass or coloured flooring design.  I have read and seen a number of those soft surfaces installed in playgrounds, kids’ activity area, and even soccer fields to keep the children using the facility safe in the event they fall or stumble.

Children are naturally drawn to playing outside.  And this mother of five believes that there are numerous benefits of outdoor play. Aside from developing their fine and gross motor skills, they also gain self-confidence and of course, develop their social competence.

Allow me to share with you one benefit of getting the kids outside- they become considerate.

Being considerate is beyond politeness.  I have seen that my boys, even at a tender age, are able to treat others decently and with respect.

Continue Reading