Advocates of children's right to play are caught between the need to provide developmentally appropriate and challenging places for play and restrictions that result from fears of liability. It may be that implementation of the suggestions of research on playground safety has resulted in the creation of playgrounds that are colorful, cute, and costly, but do not complement children's developmental needs. When children find a playground unchallenging and boring, they may seek out risk and challenge elsewhere. Usually the prospects of negative consequences of play are enhanced in these other places. It is the responsibility of children's protectors and caregivers to provide places for play that are both safe and developmentally appropriate. (BC)