My kids are all a bit older in the summer anyways, I dont normally play a lot with them at the park, I do a bit when we are the only ones there... I like to go as early as possible so we get the park to our selves for a bit b/c once 10am hits..... I think every other daycare is at that park. When the park is busy like that I do not play with the kids b/c I feel I should be standing back so I can see everyone and make sure they are all ok. But, my kids are all at the age that they can play independently at the park. When I do have my 1 really young one (14m) I stick close to her but when the park gets busy she goes in the swing so I know she is safe and I can see the rest of the kids. I do chat w/ the other providers there, however, I also am constantly doing headcounts so I know where they all are and if they are ok, behaving, etc.

I too like the idea of returning the little one to her provider, with a smile and an FYI- "she was climbing and nearly fell" etc.