Meet the Jr. Play Team: Champions of Inclusive Play

At Landscape Structures, inclusion isn’t just a goal—it’s a promise. It’s a mindset that drives everything we do from design and development to the fun that happens on the playground. At the heart of this mission is a group of kids we call the Jr. Play Team, and we’re thrilled to introduce you to them!

This group of kids from the Twin Cities are helping us create a more inclusive world of play. They bring their lived experience and insight to help us build playgrounds that welcome everyone.

Designed by kids, for all kids

The Jr. Play Team is made up of children with a range of physical, cognitive and sensory disabilities. They bring invaluable feedback to our product development process. Through real-time play and honest conversation, they help us uncover what works, what needs improvement, and—most importantly—how play can feel more inclusive for every child.

“It’s not just about watching them play,” says Jill Moore, inclusive play specialist at Landscape Structures. “It’s about listening, observing, and learning from the kids and their caregivers. They show us what true inclusivity looks like in action.”

Playground testing, the Jr. Play Team way

Throughout 2024, the Jr. Play Team gathered to test prototype equipment, share their experiences and have a lot of fun. We invited the kids and their caregivers to engage with new designs while our team observed their movement, reactions and comfort levels.

Sometimes it was clear where the kids gravitated naturally. Other times, we watched closely as they struggled or hesitated, and we turned those moments into opportunities to do better.

Take our new product, Volo Aire™. During testing, some children who needed assistance climbing up to the second level loved lying on the net and feeling the movement of others around them. But when it was time to go, parents found it difficult to help them climb back down. The solution? Add slides at the second level, offering a fun and easy way out for anyone—regardless of ability. This thoughtful fix didn’t just support accessibility, it made the experience better for all kids while also providing a more comfortable and feasible option for the caregivers as well.

A president with a purpose: Meet John Buettner

In our latest video, you’ll meet John Buettner, president of the Jr. Play Team, as he shares what inclusion means to him. With wisdom and warmth beyond his years, John gives voice to the power of designing with—not just for—children with disabilities. Watch the video and see how the Jr. Play Team is shaping the future of play.

More than a team—a movement

The Jr. Play Team is more than just a group of play testers. They’re leaders, innovators and advocates for the kind of playgrounds we all want to see in our communities: welcoming, adventurous and truly inclusive.

Their ideas spark innovation. Their feedback helps shape our products. And their joy reminds us why we do what we do.

Know a kid who would love to help shape the future of play? We’re always looking to add to the Landscape Structures Jr. Play Team. If you know someone who’s passionate about inclusive play and making a difference, fill out this form and let the fun begin!

Volo Aire™: Soaring Into the Future of Play

Volo Aire™ playground tower

Some playgrounds invite kids to climb. Others spark exploration. The Volo Aire™ playground tower does it all—at an awe-inspiring 26 feet in the air!

This three-story marvel isn’t just about height—it’s about movement, discovery, and play for all. Kids take on thrilling climbs, enjoy panoramic views and race down exhilarating slides. With its bold architectural presence, Volo Aire is a show-stopping centerpiece that redefines what a playground can be.

But what inspired this groundbreaking structure? According to Tory Roff, principal designer, the goal was to balance adventure with accessibility, design with community integration, and thrills with safety. Let’s take a closer look at the creative vision behind the Volo Aire playground tower.

“We Wanted a Playground Tower Emphasizing Height and Big Thrills.”

Towering 26 feet into the sky, Volo Aire delivers excitement that keeps kids coming back. But height alone isn’t enough—it needs to feel safe, too.

“Volo Aire’s open-weave LSI Flexx™ steel-reinforced net creates a sense of exposure, making kids assess their own comfort levels before proceeding further up,” explained Tory. “We’ve watched many attempt the climb. Sometimes they opted for a lower exit before finally conquering their fear and getting rewarded with a 20-foot vertical slide. This tower is perfect for children to push their limits and build courage—something few playgrounds are doing these days.”

With perforated panels and vertical slats, the structure is open enough to offer the perception of risk, giving kids heart-pounding views. At the same time, it’s carefully designed so parents and caregivers can maintain visual contact, ensuring both thrill and peace of mind.

“It’s More Than a Playground—It’s a Landmark.”

A playstructure this bold doesn’t just belong in a park—it helps define it. Volo Aire is more than a playground, it’s a sculptural beacon of fun that seamlessly blends into its surroundings.

“When we build at a larger scale like the Volo Aire, it is critical to develop a design language that harmonizes with both the landscape and the built environment,” Tory said. “Often playgrounds seem to get a visual pass with loud colors and lots of plastic, but we aimed to create a destination that communities can take pride in—one that becomes part of their identity.”

Its airy perforated panels, warm wood slats and an openness that invites light and movement, Volo Aire is sure to become a gathering place that enhances the community.

“Every Kid Deserves to Feel on Top of the World.”

Why should adventure be limited to a few? Volo Aire ensures that every child—of every ability—can experience the joy of climbing to the very top.

Volo Aire playground tower is inclusive for all kids

“Designing for height often unintentionally excludes those who can’t climb vertically. With Volo Aire, we challenged ourselves to make access to all portions of the playground a primary design criteria,” says Tory. “That’s why we designed an accessible, winding path made of our revolutionary LSI Flexx steel-reinforced net, allowing kids with a wide range of abilities to find a play experience that suites their needs.”

Volo Aire provides multiple routes to climb, explore and engage, ensuring that no child is left behind when it comes to play.

“Every Step Inside Should Feel Like a Discovery.”

The magic of Volo Aire doesn’t just come from its height or aesthetics—it’s in the way it feels when you step inside. This isn’t just a tall structure with a slide. It’s a multi-level play experience packed with movement, surprises and endless ways to explore.

“We wanted kids to have that ‘whoa’ moment when they step inside,” Tory shared. “Everywhere they turn, there’s something to engage with. Every square foot has been carefully programmed to offer movement, challenge and fun.”

From vertical climbs and lookout spots to interactive features and thrilling slides, Volo Aire ensures that every adventure feels new and exciting.

The Future of Play is Here

Volo Aire isn’t just a playground—it’s an experience. It’s about climbing higher, playing smarter and making every moment unforgettable.

See Volo Aire in action below, then explore this all-new playstructure at playlsi.com/volo-aire and experience play like never before.