Back to Games Unit Activities
Schoolyard Safety Walk
30 minutes
Whole Class
Exploration
Learning Objectives
- Identify safe and unsafe play areas
- Develop safety awareness
- Practice observation skills
- Learn about school environment
Preparation
- Plan safe route around schoolyard
- Create simple safety checklist with pictures
- Prepare clipboards for children
- Check with administration about areas to avoid
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Gather class and explain safety walk purpose
- 2Review safety rules for walking together
- 3Visit different areas of schoolyard
- 4At each area ask: 'Is this safe for games? Why or why not?'
- 5Point out safe features: soft grass, shade, open space
- 6Identify hazards: broken equipment, rough surfaces, busy areas
- 7Let children mark safe/unsafe on their checklists
- 8Return to classroom and discuss findings
Materials Needed
- Clipboards
- Paper
- Pencils
- Safety checklist
- First aid kit
Assessment
- Child identifies obvious safety hazards
- Child follows safety rules during walk
- Child participates in discussions
- Child shows awareness of safe play spaces
Key Vocabulary
safe
unsafe
hazard
careful
observe
area
space
Safety Notes
- Maintain close supervision
- Avoid actually unsafe areas
- Have first aid kit available
Teaching Tips
- Keep group together and supervised
- Use positive language about safety
- Include children in decision-making
- Follow up on any real safety concerns
Extensions
- Create map of safe play areas
- Write letters to principal about safety concerns
- Design ideal playground
- Practice safety rules in different areas