Parks and facilities across the country have been working toward greater inclusion over the past decade, and much of that focus has been on inclusive playgrounds. If you’re looking to take your inclusion initiative beyond the playground, consider ways to make your splash play area more accessible. The sensory experience of mists and sprays at varying intensities is a natural fit for inclusive design, and with some forethought, you can create a splash pad that will be welcoming to people of all ages and abilities.
An Invitation to All
The inclusive splash play experience begins with a seamless transition to ensure those using mobility devices, as well as older visitors who might be less steady on their feet, face no barriers to getting onto the splash pad.
From there, you should provide a variety of experiences, with mists, sprays, dumping buckets, and other interactive elements like water tables. Make sure to sequence the play, allowing guests to transition from lighter, gentler sprays and mists through to more dynamic elements. This allows people to choose their own level of water play, with gradually increasing intensity, and provides an easy retreat for those who want to escape the more intense zones.
Water tables are an engaging, interactive addition to your splash play area. They are accessible to all, including visitors using wheelchairs and other mobility devices, and allow guests to manipulate and explore at their own pace.
Dysregulation can be challenging for many visitors with disabilities. More gentle sprays and quieter experiences can provide pressure and sensory experiences that can help with self-regulation. A water shroud located at the edge can give visitors a place to take a break by limiting visual input. In addition, be sure to include places to get away from the action, such as a quiet seating area with plenty of shade.
Community Connections
Before you begin your inclusive splash pad project, be sure to invite input from the most important stakeholders—your community members with disabilities, as well as parents and caregivers of those with disabilities. Getting them involved early will help you to better understand local wants and needs better, and by working with them, you’ll not only be able to design a splash play experience that’s tailor-made for your community, you’ll also be building a team of champions for your project.
In addition, inclusion experts suggest speaking with local schools, specialty clinics, occupational therapists, nonprofit organizations, and others who work with disabled members of your community. These professionals will be able to provide additional insights into the needs they’re seeing in your community.
Beyond the Play Area
Your splash pad won’t be accessible if folks can’t get to it, so be sure that the splash pad is located relatively close to ADA parking spaces, as well as a link to public transportation. Accessible trails and paths should connect every element of your park, allowing guests using mobility devices to access playgrounds, the splash pads, restrooms, and more.
Accessible restrooms should also be located close to the play area. Single-user restrooms designed for accessibility are often chosen for inclusive parks as they provide greater privacy for visitors with disabilities and their caregivers. Be sure to include universal changing tables.
Finally, drinking fountains, shade, and sitting areas should also be located nearby. People of all ages will be grateful for a chance to rest in the shade, but this type of amenity is even more crucial for visitors taking medications that affect their ability to regulate body temperature.
With careful attention to the sequence of the splash pad itself, as well as the surrounding area and amenities, you’ll be able to transform your splash play experience into something that people of all ages and abilities will enjoy.
For More Information
Aquatix by Landscape Structures
888-438-6574
aquatix.playlsi.com