Appropriate age group:
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School
Middle School

Description of tip or technique:
When planning an outdoor excursion, you should take care to ?child-proof? your children? play space in the same way you would at home. Whenever possible, it? best to visit whatever outdoor area (beaches, lakes, parks, hiking trails, etc.) before you plan to spend any extended time there with young children. While you can never make your child? surroundings completely accident-proof, here are some things to keep in mind when planning a day with your children outdoors:

Wooded areas: When visiting parks that are heavily wooded, you?l want to keep your children away from hazards like poison ivy and oak. Beware of tricky topography too. Although children will want to explore, overgrown tree roots and large rocks can be especially dangerous for youngsters who are just learning how to walk. Always avoid places that are known to have ticks and an abundance of mosquitoes and other insects.

Lakes and Beaches: Beaches and lakes with calm and tranquil water are especially well-suited to families with younger children. Needless to say, large waves and strong currents are dangerous even for the best adult swimmers. Children of all ages should have adult supervision when playing anywhere near the water ? no matter how shallow! And remember to keep an eye out for tiny shells or stones that could pose a choking hazard to the curious baby.

Parks: Check out the park grounds before you allow your child to run freely. There are many playgrounds that have not been renovated for years and could pose a number of safety hazards. Be on the lookout for rusted nails or wooden splinters protruding from swing sets and obstacle courses, or playthings that are dilapidated. Most parks have a variety of activities for children of all ages; it? your responsibility to make sure that your child plays on toys that are age-appropriate and not above their skill level.