As many of you know, our organization has made inclusive recreation one of our core missions over the past several years. We've advocated for, designed, and implemented inclusive elements throughout our community spaces because we believe every person deserves equal access to the joy and developmental benefits of play.

Introducing Our Email Series

Over the next few weeks, we'll be sharing a three-part series explaining why inclusive parks are worth our collective investment of time, resources, and attention. We want to take you beyond the surface-level understanding of accessibility to show why these thoughtfully designed spaces matter for everyone in our community—not just those with visible disabilities.

Why This Matters

Play is fundamental to childhood development, serving as a crucial tool for learning, socializing, and growing. Through play, children develop essential cognitive, physical, and emotional skills that form the foundation for their future. However, not all children have equal access to these vital experiences, particularly those with disabilities.

For children with disabilities, play takes on even greater significance. It offers unique opportunities to overcome challenges, build confidence, and develop essential life skills in environments designed with their needs in mind.

What Makes a Park Truly Inclusive?

Inclusive parks incorporate thoughtful design elements you might recognize and others you may never have considered:

Obvious Features You Might Notice:

  • Accessible Surfacing: Poured-in-place rubber or engineered wood fiber instead of loose wood chips or sand that impede mobility devices

  • Ramped Access: Gently sloped ramps with handrails to reach elevated play structures

  • Transfer Stations: Platforms that allow wheelchair users to transfer onto play equipment

  • Wider Pathways: Accommodating side-by-side walking and mobility devices

Subtle Features That Make a Significant Difference:

  • Slide Materials: Static-free slides for children with cochlear implants or sensory sensitivities

  • Fencing: Secure boundaries for children with tendency to wander or elopement concerns

  • Clear Signage: Visual and tactile communication elements, including Braille and picture communication

  • Sensory Panels: Interactive elements at various heights that engage multiple senses

  • Cocooning Spaces: Quiet zones for children who need sensory breaks from stimulation

  • Wider Swings: Designed to accommodate larger bodies or provide more stability

  • Contrasting Colors: High visual contrast for those with vision impairments

  • Sensory Gardens: Natural elements with various textures, sounds, and scents

Beyond Physical Features

Truly inclusive parks also consider sensory experiences, cognitive development, and social interaction:

  • Sound-dampening elements to reduce overwhelming noise

  • Equipment arranged to promote parallel play between children of different abilities

  • Clear sight lines for caregivers monitoring multiple children

  • Shaded areas to accommodate temperature sensitivities

In our next email, we'll explore how these inclusive design principles go beyond minimum ADA requirements to create spaces where everyone truly belongs and can play together.

We look forward to continuing this important conversation with you!