Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

In terms of safety, what feature of a school playground should concern a kindergarten teacher the most?

1. swings lacking back support

2. packed earth under climbing structures

3. five-foot high slide platforms

4. asphalt blacktop in playing areas

The correct answer is: packed earth under climbing structures

The safety feature that should concern a kindergarten teacher the most involves the material used under climbing structures. Packed earth under climbing structures can be hazardous because it does not provide adequate cushioning in the event of a fall. Unlike other materials specifically designed for playground safety, such as soft mulch, sand, or rubber mats, packed earth is hard and can increase the risk of injury from falls, which are more common among young children who are exploring and engaging in physical play. The impact-absorbing qualities of playground surfaces are critical to minimizing injuries. When children climb and move around elevated structures, there's always the potential for a fall. Therefore, the surface beneath these structures should be designed to absorb shock and reduce the likelihood of serious injury. Choosing surfaces like soft materials instead of packed earth helps ensure a safer environment for young children as they engage in active play.