If you didn't know already, children with physical disabilities have a higher rate of physical inactivity. This means that they are missing out on critical developmental milestones and socialization opportunities.
This particular group of children has a right to gain social skills, play, and learn just like any other kid. There is one way to ensure that every child has access to play inclusively, and that is by teaching them what an inclusive playground looks like. Let's continue learning some of the terminologies to help you advocate for an inclusive playground within your community.
Accessible vs. Inclusive
The most crucial distinction is between accessible and inclusive design.
An accessible design provides ADA-compliant access points to an already conceptualized play experience. An example of this could be installing a ramp onto a play structure.
The inclusive design describes an approach to creating a complete play experience. The process should encourage children of all abilities to play together. An example of this could be designing a rocking activity with ramp access with spaces for mobility devices beside the seats.
The difference is that inclusive playgrounds consider disabilities during the design process. This allows children with disabilities to thrive while playing with other children.
The 4 Types of Playgrounds
Exclusionary playgrounds are playgrounds that do not offer activities to those with disabilities.
Segregated playgrounds are playgrounds that create two different play experiences.
Integrated playgrounds are playgrounds that meet all the qualifications for ADA compliance.
Inclusive playgrounds differentiate from integrated playgrounds by encouraging all children to play together.
Each of these playgrounds plays a significant role in what they offer to kids, whether they have disabilities or not. It is essential to keep in mind all the different types of kids there are and if your playground complies with all of the kids that want to play on it.
Terms to Use on the Playground
Keep in mind these terms when considering what playground will be beneficial to kids with disabilities. The universal design is a synonym for a playground with inclusive design. Compliant design is another way to say accessible design. An accessible route is another way of letting someone know that an unobstructed path gives them access to play. This is a fantastic experience that includes platforms, ramps, elevators, and lifts.
Let Everyone Play
Letting kids play on the playground is a universal right. Just because there are kids with disabilities doesn't mean that they shouldn't play on the playground. Everyone needs to be appropriately accounted for and given the learning experiences between accessible and inclusive design. We recommend teaching your children about the four types of playgrounds and why they are necessary to know. Familiarize yourself and your kids with this type of terminology and include everyone when it comes time to play on the playground together.
