The training provides a basic framework of educational outdoor application and best practices through content-based coursework, reading assignments, an exam, and a practical, on-site safety assessment and report. Participants will learn how to inspect for:

• Playground safety standards, guidelines, and compliance
• Supervision of play areas
• Accessibility
• Age-appropriate developmental design
• Suitable fall surfacing materials
• Environmental hazards
• Equipment maintenance
• Safety of outdoor play equipment

FAQ's:

How much does the training cost?

$711.00, which includes individual access to the online training platform, course curriculum materials (mailed to each participant), certification materials (mailed to each participant) and optional identification on NPPS’s National Registry, both upon successful completion of the training.

Does NPPS offer financial support or discounts?  

NPPS has many options to help programs and individuals stretch training dollars, from scholarships to discounted bundled packages, playground safety is a priority to us.  Agencies and individuals can make a request for a scholarship or discount.  

Please complete the registration page and provide as much detail as possible (such as non-profit status, funding constraints, new business / new employee training, number of direct child-care staff and children served, past NPPS participant, or other relevant information). NPPS will review information and follow-up with your organization’s representative prior to registration.  

What are the course requirements?

• The online training averages 16 hours of self-paced online learning.
• The training content consists of five learning modules with reading assignments and quizzes.
• Successfully complete a final exam.
• Each participant completes an on-site early childhood outdoor play inspection.
• Each participant prepares and submits a detailed playground safety inspection report.

How is this course taught?

• This self-paced course is completely online through the University of Northern Iowa’s eLearning system.

What is the length of the training?

• The training runs for four weeks and averages 16 hours to complete online training.

Who has participated?

Those who have participated represent a diverse field of professionals:

• Child care nurse consultants
• Educators
• Facility managers
• Head Start/Early Head Start
• Health and safety specialists
• Human service professionals
• NAEYC educators
• Playground maintenance technicians and custodians
• Program administrators
• Program directors

What can I do with my certification?

• Upon successful completion of the course, inspectors are able to inspect playgrounds for children under the age of five and provide consultation services for providing safety recommendations and planning strategies.

How long is my certification valid?

Certification is valid for three years, and NPPS offers recertification courses. If you currently need to be recertified, please click here.

Successful completion of this course results in an Early Childhood Outdoor Play Inspector Certification, 12 hours of health and safety training, and identification on NPPS’s National Registry. 
 
Additional class sessions may be added for groups of 10 or more. Please contact NPPS at NPPSassistant1@uni.edu.