scope:

The manual provides guidelines and recommended site layouts for designing unsupervised outdoor play areas for children through age 15. Because of differing child safety and child development requirements, guidance is provided to meet the needs of three age groups: 6 weeks to 5 years; 5 to 9 years; and 9 to 15 years. Detailed design guidance is provided for designing three types of play areas: play lots serving children ages 6 weeks to 5 years or 5 to 9 years; neighborhood parks serving youth ages 9 to 15 years; and community parks serving all age groups.

Purpose.

This manual establishes guidance for planning and designing unsupervised outdoor play areas to meet child safety and child development requirements. By applying this guidance, a designer can create play areas at military installations that will provide a play program that meets the needs of children with and without disabilities.