Are you planning a new playspace? Have you thought about making it as accessible as possible? The Americans with Disabilities Act provides minimum guidelines, but principles of Universal Design are far more inclusive. These principles encourage design that works for everyone, without hassles and segregation. Children who are typically developing and children with disabilities can play together! At universally accessible playspaces, at least 70% of the structures are accessible to people with disabilities.
Does anyone have ideas, information, or stories to share about universally accessible playspaces?
Check out the story of Adventure Island Playground in Idaho for great ideas and inspiration. This playground is the first universally accessible playground in Idaho! And, it was designed and built entirely by the community.
Family needs and a magazine story inspired the Lindigs to start building an accessible playspace. What's motivated everyone else?
"Don't give up!" seems to be the most common comment from those who have built an accessible playground in their community. Sounds like lots of projects have had ups and downs and unexpected set-backs. For those who have completed playgrounds, how long was the process for you? Did you have to change plans or recruit extra help in order to persevere? Please share your stories so others can get a better sense of what they're getting into! :)
I am going to be at New Orleans in Feb. Our school is currently in the planning stage with plans to build in summer. I was asked for advise for making play area acceessible. My 1st response was to include a ramp and a contractor told us the space size and cost would be a problem. We are trying to fit into a 40' X 60' area. I then reccomended play stations at ground level. We will be using a rubber surface and there will be 2 tables that will be wheelchair accessible. We are trying to include some type of equipment called the earthquaker (?) to allow child opportunities to fulfill vestibular stimulation needs. Those are some options we are looking at but I am excited to see if I might to bring back other ideas.
Pam