Playgrounds: Where Learning Takes Flight through Play

Playgrounds are more than child’s play; they help lay the building blocks for life. Play is how kids learn, and unstructured play opportunities — like those at a playground — benefit children in many ways. Kids can be active, explore, socialize, interact, problem solve and be independent.

Breaking Barriers, Building Bonds: Inclusive Play for All Abilities

Barriers and obstacles to play (including on a playground) can put children with disabilities at a disadvantage with their peers. They miss out on crucial opportunities for fun, fitness, independence, and fellowship with others. Studies show that children with disabilities are four times less likely to get exercise outside of school than other children. This impacts their mental health, fitness, development, and overall well-being. A study by Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital showed that 53% of children who have disabilities have zero or only one close friend and that children with and without exceptionalities are more likely to play together if the activity hardly interferes with participation. Inclusive play spaces can help solve this problem.

Play Without Limits: Fostering Friendship and Inclusion for Every Child

Accessible playgrounds benefit all children, regardless of their ability. Creating accessible play spaces allow children with exceptionalities and those without to interact and have fun together. This provides them with the opportunity to build understanding and empathy, while forging new friendships between kids of different ages and abilities. This breaks down barriers to play and promotes acceptance of diversity. By creating accessible and inclusive spaces in a park setting, we help children understand acceptance of others, which they stand to benefit from throughout their entire lives.