The Americans With Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, and ADA guidelines for playgrounds have been in effect for more than a decade, but many playground designers and manufacturers, as well as local communities and stakeholders, have long known that merely following basic accessibility guidelines is not enough. Truly inclusive play takes a wide range of physical and developmental disabilities into account, and seeks to provide a play experience that allows children of all abilities to play alongside one another.
Reach the Top
Playgrounds featuring soaring towers offer kids an opportunity to not only challenge themselves to get to the top, but also to enjoy the view once they’re up there. But with no accessible route to the top for kids who can’t climb vertically, some will be shut out from both the challenge and the thrill of a new perspective.
As playground designs have increasingly taken inclusion into consideration, designers have come up with new ways to make these experiences inclusive for all. For example, one inclusive play tower features an accessible winding path made from steel-reinforced netting. With its variety of routes to the top, this tower allows kids of all abilities to push their limits as they climb, with a 20-foot vertical slide to reward their courage.
The Right Input Matters
Inclusive play design shouldn’t happen in a bubble, but should take into account the views and desires of the local community. Look for manufacturers who work hand-in-hand with disability experts to develop play experiences that are inclusive for all. And who’s got more expertise than kids with disabilities themselves?
By working with kids with disabilities to develop inclusive play equipment, observing their play and soliciting their feedback, playground designers discover potential barriers, as well as alternative strategies that help make play even more inclusive. Gaining input and insight from children with a range of physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities helps these design teams figure out what works, as well as what could use some improvement.
For example, when testing a play tower, designers found that some children found it difficult to climb down from the second level. Adding a slide at this level provides a way out for any children who aren’t yet ready to challenge themselves to get all the way to the top, regardless of their ability.
More Than Mobility
We often think of ramps and transfer points when we consider playground accessibility, but physical disabilities that require the use of mobility devices are only one part of the spectrum. To be truly inclusive, playgrounds should be planned and designed with the entire spectrum of disabilities in mind.
For example, children with vision disabilities will benefit from a high contrast between the color of the play equipment and the surfacing beneath. Solid surfaces or tightly perforated surfaces on decks will help children with low vision see that the space is walkable. Guide ropes can also help children with vision impairment navigate play spaces more comfortably.
Children with hearing disabilities should also be taken into account, with open spaces to make it easier for children who are deaf to communicate using sign language. Roller slides or stainless-steel slides give children with cochlear implants the chance to slide without the dangers of the static created by plastic slides, which can damage those implants.
Neurodivergent children will enjoy play elements that help with sensory development, including spinning, swinging, and climbing activities. And a quiet space that allows kids to retreat from sensory input will provide a place to calm down.
For More Information
Landscape Structures Inc.
888-438-6574
www.playlsi.com