A Model of Community Pediatrics: Improving Access to Safe Play Environments

Abstract

The importance of play for the healthy development of children is clear. Safe and accessible playgrounds give children the opportunity to challenge themselves and develop physically, mentally, and socially. In the article by Allen et al1 in the current issue of Pediatrics, the authors assessed more than 450 playgrounds in Chicago to identify hazards and compare the number and safety of the playgrounds based on neighborhood and population characteristics. This study reveals promising results. Over the 3-year study period, safety scores increased significantly among the playgrounds surveyed. The authors attribute this improvement to the collaborative efforts of the study team and community partners. An important finding of Allen et al1 was the lack of adequate safety surfacing on many of the playgrounds they studied, especially on those that relied on wood chips for energy absorption. The … Address correspondence to Gary A. Smith, MD, DrPH, Center for Injury Research and Policy, 700 Children’s Dr, RB3, Columbus, OH 43205. E-mail: gary.smith{at}nationwidechildrens.org