The Value of Stakeholder-Engaged Research: Using Parent Voices in the Adaptation of the Cool 2 Be Safe Playground Safety Intervention Program

Abstract

Playground injuries are a leading cause of injury for children. Those who are 4 to 6 years of age are particularly vulnerable given their transitioning toward increased autonomy and less direct supervision. Most previous interventions have targeted environmental modifications or increased supervision to reduce playground injuries, though there is evidence of one child-focused intervention that targets behavior change. Specifically, for children 7+ years, the Cool 2 Be Safe Program has been shown to effectively reduce fall-risk behaviors on playgrounds. However, there are no behaviorally focused interventions for younger children. Addressing this gap, a stakeholder-engaged qualitative approach was used to identify the best ways to adapt and create the Cool 2 Be Safe Junior Program for children who are 4 to 6 years old. Two phases of interviews were conducted with parents, with feedback from the first phase of interviews used to modify lesson materials prior to the second phase of interviews. Parents provided perspectives about program content, as well as strengths and limitations of the program. Responses were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Parents’ feedback assisted in program modification that ultimately strengthened the intervention, as evidenced by parents’ overall positive ratings of the program. Implications for preventing playground injuries and program development for preschool children are discussed.