4 Reasons Inclusive Playgrounds Benefit Communities

Inclusive playgrounds welcome children of all ages and abilities to play, learn and grow together. Providing multigenerational, inclusive play ensures that all people experience meaningful play and the benefits of physical, cognitive, social and emotional development. This is why every community should have sensory-rich inclusive playground equipment.

Encourage Everyone to Join in the Fun

Most parks and playgrounds are designed with able-bodied children in mind. Inclusive playgrounds ensure physical and social inclusion where everyone can play together.

• Inclusive play promotes understanding, reduces prejudices and supports social integration.
• All-encompassing environments allow people of all ages and abilities to develop independence, feel included and smart while contributing to meaningful play experiences.

Promote Healthy, Active Lifestyles

Childhood obesity is a serious problem for children and adolescents in the U.S. Sadly, those with disabilities are at the greatest risk.

• 20% of children ages 10-17 with special healthcare needs are obese compared to 15% of children without these needs.
• The CDC recommends 60 minutes of physical activity each day for kids 6-17 years old, which is easier to achieve with inclusive park amenities.

Incorporate the Whole Community

Community engagement empowers and integrates people from different backgrounds. People with special needs who often feel ignored and excluded can feel safe and comfortable in this type of environment.

• 53% of children with special needs lack friendships and part of the problem is that their disability excludes them from certain activities.
• An inclusive playground design has no barriers. It allows people from all walks of life to get to know each other while enjoying rewarding play and fitness activities.

Develop Sensory and Cognitive Skills

It's important for children to practice their sensory and cognitive skills outside of the classroom. Inclusive playgrounds allow children to exercise their minds as well as their bodies.

• Unstructured outdoor play helps kids learn how to share, take turns and develop other healthy behavioral skills.
• Children who play outside regularly have better distance vision. They use all of their senses, compared to electronics that only use two senses (sight and hearing).

Inclusive Play Spaces for Every Community

Inclusive play and fitness equipment make it possible for everyone in the community to enjoy themselves outdoors. With truly inclusive multigenerational outdoor recreation spaces people of all ages and abilities will experience the joy of meaningful play and physical activity among peers and family.