teetertotter

A teetertotter, commonly called a seesaw, is a playground apparatus consisting of a long, rigid beam balanced on a central pivot. Two users sit on opposite ends, applying body weight to alternately lift one another and cause the beam to tilt up and down. Some designs support a single rider or include multiple seats, handles, and footrests.

The beam rotates about a fulcrum; side-to-side balance is achieved by the weight of the riders and their motion. Materials range from traditional wood with a metal axle to modern steel or reinforced plastic. Many contemporary seesaws incorporate safety features such as smooth edges, non-slip grips, and impact-absorbing ground surfacing beneath.

Historically, variants of the seesaw appear in many cultures, and the term teeter-totter derives from words for wobbling or tottering. In North America the compound name teetertotter is common, while other regions use seesaw or other local terms. In playgrounds, teeter-totters have been a long-standing fixture, though safety regulations and alternative equipment have influenced their prevalence in some parks.

Safety and maintenance: Regular inspection of the pivot, seats, and handles is recommended; ensure the area underneath has soft surfacing to cushion falls; supervise children and ensure balanced loading to avoid abrupt collisions; remove or repair damaged equipment promptly.