Play Safe

As a society our attitude to safety has changed over the years. Global news reporting has raised awareness of danger and legislation has established mandatory requirements. Many children nowadays play in a much more controlled environment than their parents. Cushioned surfacing, fencing, self closing gates and signs listing do’s and don’t are a  far cry from the freedom to explore and play outdoors for hours on end without supervision that many of us grew up with. Of course safety is important but every child needs to develop his or her own ability to assess risks as part of play. No amount of parental protection will stop a child from pushing the boundaries and that’s no bad thing.