A number of schools in Australia and other countries have taken steps to ban or strictly limit traditional children’s playground games and activities in the interest of children’s safety and for fear of litigation by parents. In examining the legal issues relating to playground safety, the article considers the value of play balanced against a school’s duty of care to provide a safe school environment. It is settled law that schools have a duty of care to take reasonable care and precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of students. However, the law does not require schools to provide round-the-clock supervision and smother children in cottonwool. The article concludes that although the threat of litigation may be a reality, this should not be reason alone for banning traditional playground games and activities.