ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Playground Surfacing

Playground surfacing is the material that covers the ground on a playground to protect children from getting hurt when they fall or trip while playing.

Imagine a playground like a big bowl of soup and the surfacing is like a cushion at the bottom. This cushion can be made of different materials such as rubber, wood, sand, or gravel.

Rubber is the most common type of surfacing because it’s soft and bouncy, which means it can absorb shock when kids jump or fall onto it. Think of it like a big trampoline.

Wood chips are also used because they're natural and soft. Think of it like a pile of leaves which you can jump on without getting hurt.

Sand is another type of surfacing, which is perfect for playgrounds near beaches. But it's not suitable for all playgrounds as it can get into equipment and make it less safe.

Lastly, gravel is another type of surfacing. But it’s not as popular as the others because it's not as soft and can be hard to walk on.

Regardless of the material used, playground surfacing is important to keep kids safe while playing. Just like how a helmet protects your head while you ride a bike, playground surfacing protects kids from getting hurt while they play.