In recent years, there has been a growing recognition that playgrounds should be accessible spaces where every child, regardless of ability, can explore, learn, and have fun. While accessible playgrounds are becoming more commonplace, we still have work to do. For playgrounds to be beneficial for every child, there is more that needs to be considered than basic ADA guidelines.
Below, we’ll explore what makes a playground truly accessible and why we need to look beyond this and why it matters for the well-being of children and families everywhere.
What Is an Accessible Playground?
An accessible playground is a play area that meets or exceeds standards set by legislation—such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—to ensure that children with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities can fully engage with the play environment. Beyond mere compliance, many designers aim to create truly inclusive environments, offering features that welcome children of various abilities and skill levels.
The difference between accessible and inclusive playgrounds is that accessible playgrounds meet ADA’s minimum standards like wheelchair ramps and certain ground-level components, whereas inclusive playgrounds go above and beyond compliance. They create spaces that appeal to all children, as well as incorporate universal design principles.
Key Features of Accessible Playgrounds
Smooth, Safe Surfacing
Traditional playgrounds often use gravel, sand, or uneven mulch. These can be challenging for wheelchairs or mobility devices. In accessible playgrounds, designers opt for materials such as poured-in-place rubber, rubber tiles, or synthetic turf to create a smooth, stable surface that accommodates walkers, strollers, and wheelchairs. Cunningham Recreation has a wide selection of safety surfacing materials that will support an accessible playground.
Ramps and Accessible Routes
To allow children with mobility challenges to explore different levels of the playground, features like gentle-angled ramps and wide pathways are essential. Accessible playgrounds also ensure that main entrances, exits, and high-interest play elements are served by these routes.
Adaptive Equipment
Many accessible playgrounds include equipment designed to support children with varying physical and sensory needs. For example, adaptive swings have high backs and harnesses, making them ideal for kids and adults with special needs. Low-rise slides allow children of all abilities to make it to the top of the slide and enjoy a fun ride down, while ground-level sensory panels encourage kids to interact with tactile, visual, and auditory stimuli.
Sensory-Rich Elements
Children learn and develop through multi-sensory experiences. Accessible playgrounds often feature tactile panels with textured surfaces, sound-producing elements like chimes or drums, and color-coded or contrasting features that help kids with visual impairments navigate and enjoy the space.
Quiet or Calming Areas
Playgrounds can be overwhelming for children with sensory processing challenges, leading to meltdowns and difficulty regulating emotions. Inclusive designs often include calming stations or quiet nooks where children can retreat to regulate their emotions before returning to group play.
Conclusion: Playgrounds for All
Every child deserves the joy of swinging, climbing, laughing, and learning in a playground environment that supports their abilities. By prioritizing accessible design, and even going beyond minimum standards, we can create inclusive spaces that offer endless fun for all ages and abilities. Contact Cunningham Recreation to discuss your ideas for an accessible playground that allows ALL children to have fun and play together!
