—
Inclusive playground design refers to the creation of play environments that cater to all children, irrespective of their physical, cognitive, sensory, or behavioral abilities. It’s more than just an adherence to the guidelines set forth by the Disability Discrimination Act in the UK or similar regulations elsewhere. It involves a deeper understanding of various abilities and disabilities, and translating that understanding into a physical space where all children can feel included, capable, and engaged.
School playground equipment is designed inclusively to accommodate everyone, including adults. Parents or carers with disabilities must also be able to navigate and use the playground, ensuring they can participate in their children’s play experiences.
History of Inclusive Playground Design in the UK
Understanding the historical context of inclusive playground design in the UK helps shed light on the current market scenario and future trends.
Early Playground Design in the UK (Late 19th – Mid 20th Century)
The concept of playgrounds began to take root in the UK in the late 19th century. Early playgrounds were primarily created to provide urban children with space for physical exercise. Unfortunately, during this period, societal understanding of disabilities was limited, and the concept of inclusive play was virtually non-existent. Consequently, early playground designs largely excluded children with disabilities.
The Era of Accessibility (Late 20th Century)
With the rise of the disability rights movement in the late 20th century, the concept of “accessibility” began to gain traction. The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), enacted in the UK in 1995, was instrumental in driving this change. This Act made it unlawful to discriminate against individuals in respect of their disabilities in relation to employment, the provision of goods and services, education, and transport.
Following this Act, playground designs began to incorporate some accessible features, such as ramps and wider paths. However, these were typically added as an afterthought rather than being integrated into the overall design. As a result, while playgrounds became more accessible for children with physical disabilities, they were still far from being truly inclusive.
Emergence of Inclusive Design (21st Century)
As societal understanding of disabilities evolved, there was a growing recognition of the need for spaces where children of all abilities could interact and play together. This led to the emergence of “inclusive” playground design in the early 21st century.
In 2010, the Equality Act further reinforced the rights of people with disabilities in the UK. It replaced previous anti-discrimination laws, including the DDA, and went further by requiring public bodies, including local authorities responsible for public playgrounds, to make reasonable adjustments and eliminate barriers that prevent disabled people from accessing services.
With this, the trend shifted from merely adding accessible elements to an existing design to creating playgrounds designed from the ground up to be inclusive. The new inclusive designs aim to provide a wide variety of play experiences that can be enjoyed by all children, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
Today, the UK market recognizes the value of inclusive playgrounds in promoting social integration and enhancing the quality of life for all children. The trend towards inclusive playground design is on the rise, with a growing number of schools, councils, and developers prioritizing inclusivity in their playground projects.
Key Principles of Inclusive Playground Design
Universally Accessible
Universal accessibility implies that playground designs should be usable by all, to the greatest extent possible, without needing adaptation or specialized design. This could involve incorporating ramps, wide gate entrances, or ample space around play equipment for easy maneuverability. Even the surface beneath the play equipment should be such that it facilitates easy movement for individuals using mobility aids.
Variety of Play Experiences
Inclusive playgrounds should offer a variety of play experiences to cater to different abilities, skills, and interests. This would include elements promoting physical play (like climbing structures), sensory play (like sand and water play areas), imaginative play (like playhouses), and cognitive play (like puzzles or interactive panels).
Safety
Safety must be paramount in any playground, and even more so in inclusive playgrounds. Equipment should be age-appropriate and risk-assessed, and the materials used should be non-toxic and durable. The design should consider visibility, ensuring caregivers can always see their children, and there should be clear boundaries to prevent children from wandering off.
Inclusive Playground Equipment: A Comprehensive Look
Inclusive playgrounds require specific types of equipment to cater to the needs of all children:
- Ramped Play Structures: These structures should not only have ramps for wheelchair users but also guardrails for those who have trouble with balance. They should offer a variety of experiences at different heights, encouraging all children to explore as far as they are comfortable.
- Sensory Play Panels: These panels can include different textures, sounds, or interactive games. They can be particularly beneficial for children with sensory processing disorders, autism, or visual impairments, stimulating their senses in a controlled way.
- Swings with Supportive Seating: Swings are a staple of any playground, but for some children, traditional swings are not accessible. Swings with supportive seating or harnesses allow those with physical disabilities to enjoy this classic playground experience.
- Quiet Corners and Tunnels: Not all children enjoy constant activity and noise. Having designated quiet areas provides a break for those with sensory sensitivities or those who simply need a moment of calm.
- Inclusive Roundabouts: Traditionally, roundabouts or carousels can be difficult for wheelchair users to enjoy. Inclusive designs feature openings and secure spots where wheelchairs can be safely placed, allowing these children to participate fully.
Inclusive Playground Design in the UK: A Growing Market
The demand for inclusive playgrounds in the UK is rising, propelled by increasing awareness of the importance of inclusivity and social integration. It’s becoming more common for local councils, schools, and housing developments to prioritize inclusive playgrounds in their planning.
Companies in the UK that specialize in inclusive playground design are at the forefront of this evolution. They regularly collaborate with healthcare professionals, educators, and families to make sure their playgrounds are not only fun and stimulating but also meet various developmental needs.
Conclusion: The Value of Inclusive Playground Design
Inclusive playground design is a move towards a more accepting and empathetic society. It encourages friendships and understanding among diverse groups of children, fosters self-esteem in children who may feel ‘different’, and enhances the quality of life for children with disabilities. With the UK market embracing this trend wholeheartedly, we’re getting closer to a future where every child can look at a playground and feel excited, not excluded.
—
This content is brought to you by Sovereign Play
The post What is Inclusive Playground Design? appeared first on The Good Men Project.