Playgrounds are a place for play and learning, where children develop physical and cognitive skills, and where they build valuable social relationships. It’s about creating spaces where all kids can explore in a variety of settings, addressing a variety of interests, senses and skills. Not all playgrounds today can be considered inclusive.
This session will provide participants with an overview of the emerging awareness of a new population of children on the playground, and how to create playground designs that meet their unique needs. Attendees will learn more about the range of disabilities of playground participants and especially the rapidly growing incidence of children with autism and related spectrum disorders. Tips and strategies will be provided on how to make small to major changes in their play spaces to make playgrounds not just welcoming, but engaging, challenging and therapeutic. Participants will gain ideas on how to plan inclusive playgrounds that are embraced by the community and create a source of community pride.
Landscape Structures is authorized by IACET to offer .15 CEUs for this session and 1.5 CEUs/Professional Development Units by LA CES. Upon completion of the session, participants will possess the ability to:
- Define the growing demand for inclusive playgrounds
- Recognize the differences between meeting ADAAG requirements and creating an inclusive play design
- Describe why sensory play is important for all children
- Define examples of inclusive play design elements
- Identify best practices for a successful outcome
Contact your Landscape Structures playground consultant to find out how to bring the Beyond Accessibility: A Higher Level of Inclusive Play Learning Academy session to your community or organization.