30 Years
Research & Raising Awareness
NPPAS's inspectors have been trained and mentored by researchers, published authors, and qualified experts.
Who We Are
We are a nonprofit 501(c) 3 organization grounded in research, experiences, and best practices. We customize services to support at the local, state, national, and international level.
Research
Our program has a collection of 150 years of topical expertise, research, public speaking, training, and certification programs. Receive the latest research and information for your playgrounds from NPPAS.
Get Certified
Learn comprehensive safety guidelines, standards, regulations, and best practices for play areas for children of all age groups through training, certification, and recertification.
Our Purpose
Together, we can make positive changes for the future of children’s playspaces.
WHY NPPAS?
OUR MISSION
The National Program for Play Area Safety mission is to expand on the 30-year initiative to help communities and organizations ensure safe and quality play areas and playgrounds for all children.
WE DO THIS THROUGH
Promoting the best practices based on cutting-edge research, guidelines, and standards.
Consulting and collaborating with agencies and organizations at the local, state, national, and international levels.
Undertaking a rigorous program of research about playground injuries, safety, injury prevention, playground hazards, thermal safety, and supervision.
Providing quality research-based certification programs in the areas for Early Childhood, Elementary Schools, Before-After School-Age Care Programs, and Community Park Programs.
Does Your Playground Make the Grade?
Having a safe playground is one of the most important things to consider when you are charged with the care of children. We have developed a comprehensive report card that you or your organization can use to assess the overall safety of the playground. You can download a free copy of the report card to see where your playground ranks.