Monkey Bars

In Buckinghamshire managed Schools/Playgrounds, overhead hand ladders; “monkey bars,” should be used only under close direct adult supervision, by children who have sufficient arm strength and body management skills to undertake the traverse without swinging their bodies. The accompanying adult should be prepared to provide physical support for the child at any time should fatigue or potential loss of control become apparent.

This type of supervision should only be undertaken by staff that have the physical ability, strength, training, and skills to provide the appropriate physical support when appropriate. It would not be appropriate for this type of supervision to be undertaken by staff who are pregnant or staff who have any type of back problem, heart condition or other medical condition which might be exacerbated by having to make a sudden intervention of this type.