Playground Injuries: First Aid Tips for Kids and Teachers

Playgrounds are a place for laughter, exploration, and fun—but they’re also one of the most common settings for childhood injuries. From scraped knees to bumped heads, accidents happen quickly. Knowing how to handle playground injuries calmly and correctly can prevent a minor issue from becoming a major emergency.

Stay Calm and Take Control

Children often look to adults for cues. If you stay calm, they’re more likely to stay calm too. Approach the child quickly, assess the situation, and reassure them with a gentle voice.

Say something like:

“I’m here to help. Let’s take a look and see what’s going on.”

Do a Quick Safety Scan

Before rushing in, make sure the scene is safe for both you and the child. If the injury happened near broken equipment, on uneven surfaces, or in a high-traffic area, move the child (if safe) to a quieter, safer spot before assessing them.

Assess the Injury

Start with a head-to-toe check, keeping an eye out for:

• Bleeding or bruising

  
  

• Swelling or deformities

  
  

• Crying or nonverbal signs of pain

  
  

• Confusion or changes in behavior (especially with head bumps)

  
  

Always ask the child what hurts and how they’re feeling—kids are often the best reporters of their own injuries.

Treat Minor Injuries on the Spot

Here’s how to handle common playground injuries:

Scrapes & Cuts

• Wash with clean water

  
  

• Apply antiseptic if available

  
  

• Cover with a clean bandage

  
  

• Offer a cool compress if swollen

  
  

Bumps & Bruises

• Apply a cold pack (wrapped in cloth) for 10–15 minutes

  
  

• Monitor for swelling or discomfort

  
  

• Keep the child calm and at rest

  
  

Possible Sprains or Broken Bones

• Avoid moving the affected limb

  
  

• Immobilize the area if trained

  
  

• Call parents and seek medical attention if there’s severe pain, swelling, or inability to move the limb

  
  

Head Injuries

• Watch for signs of concussion: confusion, vomiting, dizziness, or drowsiness

  
  

• Keep the child still and quiet

  
  

• Seek immediate medical attention for any concerning symptoms

  
  

Know When to Call for Help

Always err on the side of caution. Call 911 or the school nurse if:

• The child is unconscious or unresponsive

  
  

• There is heavy bleeding that won’t stop

  
  

• There is a suspected fracture or head/neck/back injury

  
  

• The child has difficulty breathing

  
  

• You’re unsure how serious the injury is

  
  

Document the Incident

For schools or daycare centers, complete an injury report including:

• What happened

  
  

• Type of injury

  
  

• Actions taken

  
  

• Who was notified

  
  

This helps track patterns, improves safety practices, and keeps parents informed.

Comfort the Child

Once the injury is managed, don’t forget the emotional side. A little compassion goes a long way. Offer a hug, kind words, or even a sticker or ice pop. Let them know it’s okay to feel upset—and that they were brave.

Prevent Future Injuries

Use each incident as a learning opportunity. Check the playground for hazards:

• Loose bolts or broken equipment

  
  

• Unsafe surfaces (gravel, concrete, etc.)

  
  

• Inadequate supervision

  
  

Reinforce playground rules with kids, like:

• No pushing

  
  

• Take turns

  
  

• Feet-first on slides

  
  

• Walk, don’t run, near swings

  
  

Conclusion 

Handling playground injuries like a pro is all about staying calm, being prepared, and responding with confidence and care. Whether you’re a teacher, school staff member, or parent volunteer, your quick thinking can keep a child safe, soothe their fears, and even prevent further harm.