April 24th, 2017
Children enjoy playing with other kids on the playgrounds, but kids with disabilities must often sit on the sidelines not engaged in active play with others. Why? Many playgrounds lack proper equipment to accommodate their specific needs. So how can you help? If you are considering a playground project for a school, city or neighborhood park, consider building an inclusive playground. When organizations create inclusive playgrounds, they not only help disabled children, but also many other children in your community. Here are some main benefits of offering an inclusive playground, and how they benefit a community and serve all children.
What is Inclusive Play?
Simply put, inclusive play, means all children, regardless of their ability, gender, age or background, should be given the same opportunities to explore, discover and achieve during play. As disabled children get the chance to socialize with others during inclusive play, they are able to see past their differences, and focus more on their similarities with other children rather than any differences of size, ability, gender, etc.
Benefits of Inclusive Playgrounds for Children and Families
Socialization is one of the most important advantages of offering an inclusive playground. Tragically, too many children with disabilities spend a great deal of their free time alone or away from other children, often staring at computer or televisions indoors. As a result, they do not receive positive feedback needed from peers during play. Thanks to inclusive playgrounds, children with disabilities or differences can interact with peers and feel better about themselves, while also developing physical skills and abilities.
Another huge benefit of inclusive playgrounds is they promote active play, and can help kids build decision and problem solving skills. As kids play, they develop social abilities, enhance their communication skills, and receive physical benefits of gross motor skill activity and exercise.
In addition to kids participating in active play with peers, their parents, grandparents or caretakers are able to access the playground. Adults get to socialize with other adults while their kids are playing and socializing with other kids. Sadly, parents or caretakers of disabled children can become as isolated as their children when they do not get out of the house much or interact with other adults.
Inclusive playgrounds also support cognitive development and imaginative play for all children. Sensory play panels, musical instruments, and interactive features help stimulate learning while allowing kids to engage at their own pace. Whether a child is neurodivergent or has a physical disability, the opportunity to play with peers in a safe, enriching environment promotes confidence and curiosity that extends beyond the playground.
Another important benefit is long term inclusivity within your community when cities and organizations invest in accessible, inclusive playgrounds, they signal to residents that everyone matters and belongs. This sense of belonging leads to stronger community connections, greater civic pride and increased engagement from families of all backgrounds. Parents are more likely to frequent parks that are welcoming to all children, making inclusive playgrounds a valuable asset for growing neighborhoods and cities alike.
How Inclusive Playgrounds Help Communities
When disabled children have access to inclusive playgrounds it also benefits children who do not have disabilities. It teaches them that all people have similarities and differences. Kids soon learn the importance of accepting children who are not like them, making everyone more tolerant of others. In turn, children learn to become more sensitive and aware of the needs of their peers and others around them in the world – a good life-skill we could all use.
Inclusive playgrounds foster friendships because they offer more variety in the types of activities and materials, allowing more opportunities to interact with each other in creative, fun ways. Once children, without disabilities, socialize and interact with children who do have disabilities, they often realize how much they do have in common rather than focusing on any differences.
Here at Noah’s Park and Playgrounds, our designers know the importance of offering proper playgrounds to foster play for children of all abilities. Inclusive playgrounds are critical to all our customers whether they are schools, childcare facilities, city parks, HOA parks, apartments, churches and many more. We offer only commercial-grade equipment that is durable and safe, while able to meet the needs of all children. For example, the outdoor fitness Tai Chi Spinner, besides other equipment that is wheelchair friendly which can help develop strength and flexibility to all children.
Key Features of Inclusive Playground Design
Creating an inclusive playground involves more than just adding a wheelchair-accessible ramp. Thoughtful design includes a mix of sensory rich elements, ground level play features, accessible surfacing like pour in place rubber and inclusive signage with images and text. Play structures should offer multiple levels of challenge to accommodate kids with different abilities, as well as quiet zones or cozy spaces where children who may become overwhelmed can take a break without feeling excluded. These features ensure that everyone, from children with autism to those using mobility devices, can experience the joy of play in a meaningful way.
Inclusive playgrounds should also encourage group interaction and parallel play. Incorporating musical instruments, group swings, seesaws, and games that allow multiple players promotes teamwork and social bonding. Visual cues and tactile elements help children with vision or hearing impairments fully engage in the space. At Noah's Park & Playgrounds, we prioritize equipment that encourages collaboration and offers multiple access points for maximum inclusivity.
Funding Options for Inclusive Playground Projects
If you're concerned about budget, know that there are many funding opportunities available to support the construction of inclusive playgrounds. Schools and communities can apply for local or federal grants, including those from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) or check out our grants page for more options! Many businesses and civic organizations are also eager to sponsor projects that benefit the entire community. Fundraising events, community partnerships, and donor recognition plaques can all contribute to making your inclusive playground a reality
Over the years Noah’s Park and Playgrounds has become specialized at creating custom ADA Accessible playgrounds and play spaces for many of our customers who must offer accessible equipment.
We are here to help you create a playground for everyone!