Examination of the playground regulations of preschool education institutions (Zonguldak city example)

The aim of this study is to examine the playground regulations of the preschool education institutions. Study group of the research consists of 3 kindergantens and 17 nursery classes in Zonguldak city center and Devrek district center. The data of the study, which was conducted with 20 teachers and 210 children, was obtained by applying the semi-structured observation, semi-structured interview ,checklist and drawing technique which is one of the qualitative data collection techniques. Descriptive analysis technique, which is one of the qualitative data analysis techniques, was used in the analysis of the obtained data. At the end of the study, it was determined that the playground arrangements of the kindergartens and nursery classes examined were below the required standards. In the study, it was determined that the playgrounds of preschool institutions were not safe, comfortable and sufficient for developmental children, and teachers were on the same opinion. According to the findings obtained after the analysis of the research data, it was seen that the majority of the teachers participating in the research were of the opinion that the preschool education institution they work for did not have enough playground. In addition, the teachers stated that the playground arrangements of preschool education institutions should be designed as spaces that support the development of children, provide a safe environment, include creative equipment, intertwine with nature, provide learning opportunities by doing and living, a contain solid and qualified equipment. With the pictures of children, the playground of pre-school education institutions were evaluated in terms of classic, creative and adventure game equipment and they were provided to depict the playground of their dreams. The drawings were evaluated under the titles of classical playground equipment, creative playground equipment, adventure playground equipment, containment and lighting equipment, planting and flooring equipment, other equipment and other places. The playground arrangements of pre-school education institutions are the places that contribute to the highest benefit of the education sought. Therefore, nursery classes and kindergartens should be designed in line with the standards of playground regulations and teacher student satisfaction should be considered. Keywords: Playground, Preschool, Preschool Education, Playground Arrangements, Outdoor