Creating Inclusive Playgrounds: A Playbook of Considerations and Strategies

Abstract

Playgrounds are important to children’s health, development, and overall well-being. Yet many playgrounds are still inaccessible for children and adults with disabilities, creating exclusionary experiences that are deeply problematic. To help address these barriers, our team (Tim Ross, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, University of Toronto; Kelly Arbour-Nicitopoulos, University of Toronto; Ingrid Kanics, Kanics Inclusive Design Services, LLC; Jennifer Leo, University of Alberta) has prepared a report titled, “Creating Inclusive Playgrounds: A Playbook of Considerations and Strategies.” This playbook offers municipalities, community groups, practitioners (e.g., designers, developers, builders), and families living with disability a comprehensive resource for creating inclusive playgrounds. The considerations and strategies presented in this report go beyond the borders of playground design by covering topics such as community engagement, play programming, playground surroundings, service and maintenance, and more.