Communities are diverse. Playgrounds should be too. Active, independent play is importantl for the development, health, well-being, and social opportunities of all children. However, the benefits of play are not limited only to children, but reach across communities and throughout one's lifespan. Now more than ever, communities across the world are seeking innovative ways to unite children, families, and community members through the power of play. Understanding the value and benefits of inclusive, play for all ages will help communities promote and invest in environments which support the diverse needs of society and positive outcomes.
A Unique and Comprehensive Inclusion Philosophy
Inclusive play is not only about physically accessing a space, but also also on what happens once an individual gets there. By providing children of all abilities with inclusive environments and the skills to play together more independently, children will feel nurtured, encouraged, respected, and active during play - both physically and socially - thereby creating a sense of community among all. Respecting the developmental needs of children and designing inclusive play environments that meet the 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design® is an importantl first step in providing the foundation for inclusive play to happen. Whole communities start with inclusively designed whole environments which carefully meet the needs of the whole child.
Respecting the Needs of the Whole Child
Research continues to demonstrate the importance of play across the domains of child development: physical, social-emotional, sensory, cognitive, and communication. People need to be able to be active, exercise self-determination, engage in social interactions, learn and understand, and experience sensory activation to enhance their overall quality of life. Opportunities to be active in play, and participate in community recreation contributes to better health outcomes. Some of the many benefits from participating in play are higher self-esteem, positive, self-identity, and emotional well-being that have a lasting effect on an individual into their adult life.
"Some of the many benefits from participating in play are higher self-esteem, positive, self-identity, and emotional well-being that have a lasting effect on an individual into their adult life."
Play is the natural environment where social interactions happen, contributing to greater acceptance, the breaking down of barriers, and the fostering of friendships. Creating truly inclusive and enjoyable play experiences should start with an understanding of and design focus on these developmental domains.
Innovating Research-Based Whole Environments
The 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design® have carefully tailored the adult focused Principles of Design, originally created by the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University for indoor environments (Center for Universal Design, 1997), to what children want to feel and experience during play in outdoor environments. While no two universally designed play environments are alike, we know that children want to "Be" and feel fair, included, smart, independent, safe, active, and comfortable during play. By aligning these evidence-based 7 Principles of Inclusive Design and the specific guidelines and considerations offered in this guidebook to the outdoors, of all people, of all ages, and all abilities.
Celebrating Inclusion for the Whole Community
Inclusive play is our passion and purpose. We'd love to help every community promote inclusive play as an important way to enrich and enhance the quality of life for children, families, and communities across our nation.