Original Publication Date: July, 2021
Focus: Sport & Exercise

The Inclusive Playgrounds resource presents evidence-informed recommendations for designing inclusive playgrounds to enable participation for children with disabilities andprovides a diagram of a potential inclusive playground illustrating how these recommendations can be implemented. The research supporting the Inclusive Playgrounds resource is described in the KT Bulletin: Evidence-Informed Recommendations for Designing Inclusive Playgrounds to Enable Participation for Children with Disabilities.

 

A pdf of the Inclusive Playgrounds resource with the diagram's legend is available in English (click here) and French (click here). Both files can be found at the bottom of the page.

 

Diagram of an inclusive playground shows children of all ages and abilities playing in a playground, illustrating the evidence-informed recommendations for designing inclusive playgrounds.

| Diagram created and designed by Megan Cheung |

Playground Elements & Recommendations

1.     Entry Points

1.1. Entrance to the playground space is wide and free of any obstacles 

1.2. Wide, flat, and firm pathways from the entrance to the playground 

1.3. Enclosing the playground to prevent children from straying (Promising Practice) 

 

2.     Surfacing and paths

2.1. A flat uniform surface that consists of material that is moderately firm and stable  

2.2. Ramps that provide access to and between elevated play components 

 

3.     Features to foster inclusive play

3.1. Play equipment accessible to all children 

3.2. Variety of play equipment that provides appropriate challenges for children of all ages and abilities 

3.3. Different types of sensory play components that are spread out within the play space to reduce overstimulation 

3.4. Solitary play components for escaping overstimulation 

3.5. Play components shaped in recognizable designs that allow for creative and imaginative pursuits 

3.6. Informational features to aid with spatial orientation, communication, and guidance on proper use of equipment 

3.7. Shaded spaces to aid with temperature regulation 

 

4.     Staffing/Supervision

4.1. Trained staff present in the play space to support play for all children 

 

5.     Design process

5.1. User involvement (families of children with disabilities and representative from disability organizations) in the design process  

Files: PDF icon What Makes a Playground Inclusive.pdf, PDF icon What_makes_a_playground_inclusive-FR.pdf