Park Protectors and Playground Rules
Materials Needed:
- Pictures or drawings of different parks
- Pictures or simple puppets of community helpers (like a park ranger or maintenance worker)
- Construction paper
- Crayons or markers
- Optional: A favorite stuffed animal or toy
- Optional: A real visit to a local park!
Introduction: Let's Talk Parks!
Ask your student: What is a park? What do you like to do at the park? Show pictures of different parks (playgrounds, green spaces, national parks). Talk about how parks are special places in our community where everyone can go to play and have fun.
Activity 1: Playground Rules Rock!
Why do we have rules at the park? Discuss simple park rules like:
- Wait your turn for the slide or swing.
- Slide down feet first.
- Hold on tight when swinging.
- Be careful not to run too close to the swings.
- Put trash in the trash can.
- Share the toys and equipment.
Talk about why each rule helps keep us safe and makes sure everyone gets a chance to play fairly. You can act out gently following the rule vs. what might happen if you don't follow the rule (e.g., pretending to almost bump someone near the swings).
Activity 2: Who Helps at the Park?
Introduce the idea of community helpers at the park. Show pictures/puppets of a park ranger or maintenance worker. Ask: What do these people do? Explain that they help keep the park clean (picking up trash, fixing equipment) and safe (making sure rules are followed, helping people). They are like the park's special guardians!
Activity 3: Sharing Superstars!
Parks are for everyone! That means we have to share the swings, slides, and space. Use a favorite toy or stuffed animal. Practice taking turns: "My turn to push the toy on the imaginary swing! Now it's your turn." Set a timer for short turns if needed. Talk about how sharing makes playing together more fun.
Activity 4: Make a Park Rule Sign!
Give the student construction paper and crayons/markers. Ask them to choose one important park rule (like 'put trash in the bin' or 'wait your turn') and draw a picture showing that rule. Help them write a simple word or label if they wish. Display their sign!
Conclusion: Parks are Precious!
Review what you learned: Parks are fun community places. Rules help keep us safe and fair. Park helpers keep the park nice for everyone. Sharing makes the park fun for all! We are all 'Park Protectors' when we follow the rules and help keep it clean.
Optional Extension: Park Adventure!
If possible, visit a local park. Point out any rule signs. Look for park workers. Practice waiting your turn and sharing space. Have fun!