Program Quality Indicators = Quality Early Learning and Quality ...

0% - 50% of
Benchmarks
Achieved
(Unsatisfactory)
51% - 99%
of
Benchmarks
Achieved
100%
of
Benchmarks
Achieved
(Minimum)
100%
of
Benchmarks
Achieved &
50% of
Enhanced
Benchmarks
100%
of
Benchmarks
Achieved &
100% of
Enhanced
Benchmarks
(Exceptional)
7. Safety precautions in place for outdoor activities.
Play areas safe and clear of obstacles/obstructions.
Play areas are clearly defined.
Free of hazards.
Well maintained.
Gates are at all times closed.
Gates can be easily opened in case of emergencies.
Playground inspections are up to date (daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal, annual).
Maintenance inspections and annual comprehensive written reports as well as
appropriate action plan if necessary are kept on file.
Sun and shade available.
Some protection from the wind.
Sand in the sandbox is to be replaced when it is dirty or contaminated.
Grassy areas are well maintained.
Sand/salt on slippery areas.
Doorways clear and cleaned in winter.
Snow is not built up to allow children to reach heights higher than the playground fence.
Puddles swept away.
Hard play surfaces are kept clean of stones, sand and gravel.
If outside play area leads into the centre’s inside play area, floors are swept. (Children
can assist.)
Where the entrance/exits do not open onto the outside play area, appropriate staffing is in
place to escort the children to the playground safely.
Shed doors are closed.
Storage for materials/equipment/toys is safe, organized and easily accessible.
Heavy furniture/equipment are stable/securely anchored.
Sharp objects are removed, equipment well maintained, free of sharp edges, splinters,
pinch points and crush points.
Sufficient number of toys/equipment for the group size.
Toys/equipment/materials are rotated and changed on a regular basis.
Toys/equipment/materials/furniture are age appropriate.
Helmets for riding toys.
Sun screen applied before outdoor play.
Appropriate footwear and clothing for children that fits for specific season.
Appropriate footwear and clothing for staff as per centre policy.
Sun hats are worn by children and staff.
Cord, strings, ties are removed from clothing and equipment/materials.
Assistance from another staff is easily accessible in cases of emergency.
Attendance boards for each group are present in the outdoor areas that the children are
occupying.