Living in Manhattan, near Central Park and the Upper West Side surrounded by some of the best playgrounds means our kids spend a lot of time climbing, sliding, swinging, and exploring. And while playground play is wonderful for physical and social development, it also comes with the occasional bump, bruise, or fall.
The good news? Most playground injuries are minor and can be safely managed at home. Knowing what to look for—and when to seek medical attention—can help parents feel more confident the next time an accident happens.
Scrapes & Cuts
Scraped knees and small cuts are some of the most common playground injuries, especially on concrete, wood, or rough play surfaces.
What to do:
- Rinse the area with clean water right away
- Gently wash with warm, soapy water at home
- Cover with a thin layer of bacitracin and a Band-Aid
When to get checked:
- The cut is deep or won’t stop bleeding
- There is increasing redness, swelling, or drainage
- Dirt or debris can’t be removed
Bruises
Bruises happen all the time during active play and are usually harmless.
What to do:
- Apply ice wrapped in a towel for 10–15 minutes at a time
- Encourage rest if the area is sore
When to get checked:
- Significant swelling develops
- Your child refuses to use the area
- Pain worsens instead of improving
Splinters
Wooden playground equipment can occasionally lead to splinters.
What to do:
- Remove the splinter gently with clean tweezers
- For pesky splinters, it is helpful to soak in warm water for 5-10 min to soften the skin before extraction
- Rinse with soap and water
- Cover with a thin layer of bacitracin and a Band-Aid
When to get checked:
- The splinter is deep or difficult to remove
- Redness, swelling, or signs of infection appear
Falls on an Outstretched Hand (FOOSH Injuries)
When children fall, they naturally put their hands out to catch themselves. This is called a “FOOSH” injury (fall on an outstretched hand), and it’s a very common cause of wrist injuries and fractures in kids.
Watch for:
- Wrist pain
- Swelling
- Difficulty moving the wrist
- Refusing to use the arm
Sometimes children can still move the wrist even with a small fracture, so persistent pain after a fall should always be taken seriously.
Head Bumps
Head bumps are common at playgrounds—and often one of the biggest sources of anxiety for parents. Fortunately, most minor head injuries are not serious.
Monitor for:
- Vomiting
- Severe or worsening headache
- Unusual sleepiness
- Confusion or behavior changes
- Trouble walking or talking
When to call Manhattan Valley Pediatrics.
- Your child loses consciousness
- Symptoms worsen over time
- Your child is difficult to wake
- You notice repeated vomiting or concerning neurologic symptoms
Trust Your Gut
Parents know their children best. If something feels “off” after an injury—even if it seems minor—it’s always okay to reach out to your pediatrician.
Playground adventures are an important part of childhood, and a few bumps along the way are expected. Having a plan for common injuries can help you feel more prepared and confident for the next park day.
Concerned about your child’s symptoms? Schedule a same-day sick visit with our pediatricians in Manhattan.
