WHY IS INCLUSIVE PLAY SO IMPORTANT?


By connecting children through inclusive play, children of all abilities develop social skills and an increased sense of empathy, which promotes unity and sets a solid foundation to build a more accepting community and brighter future for all of our families. Meaningful, inclusive play provides physical, cognitive, social and emotional development benefits, which is extremely important to continually develop in school age children.

Most school playgrounds and parks are designed and cater to children with no disabilities. Inclusive playgrounds are specifically designed to remove barriers and promote social and physical inclusion where everyone can play together. These inclusive environments allow children of all abilities to develop independence, feel included and partake in a meaningful play (and learning!) experience.

Not all disabilities are visible. Various types of disabilities exist in school age children including physical, sensory, social-emotional, cognitive and more.

According to research, 53% of children with special needs lack friendships and part of the problem is that their disability excludes them from certain activities. An inclusive playground design has no barriers. It allows all children to get to know each other while enjoying rewarding play and fitness activities.

It's also important for children to practice their sensory and cognitive skills outside of the classroom. Inclusive playgrounds at schools provide a unique opportunity for children to exercise their minds. Unstructured outdoor play helps kids learn how to share, take turns and develop other healthy behavioral skills.


#EVERYEAGLE


Our goal of providing access to an inclusive play experience for all children at Eisenhower Elementary includes four main objectives:

Build Lasting Friendships

Access for All

Play Together

Include Every Eisenhower Eagle

SEVEN PRINCIPALS OF INCLUSIVE PLAY DESIGN

We designed our #EveryEagle Playgrounds based on these inclusive play principals.


1. Be Fair

Create Equitable Opportunities

  • Physical

  • Cognitive

  • Communication

  • Social/Emotional

  • Sensory

2. Be Included

Access Flexibility

  • Ramps

  • Climbers

  • Links

  • Transfer Platforms

3. Be Smart

Simple and Intuitive Design

  • Behavioral Clues

  • Sensory Feedback

  • Well Organized

  • Reinforce Play Patterns

  • Set Clear Expectations

4. Be Independent

Individual Exploration

  • Accessible Surfaces

  • Accessible Routes of Travel

  • Slide Transfers

5. Be Safe

Safety Standards and Comfort Areas

  • Comfortable Supervision Areas

  • Clear Visibility

  • Cozy Spots

  • Jump-In Points

6. Be Active

Accommodate Diverse Needs

  • Sustained Physical Activity

  • Cooperation

  • Socialization

7. Be Comfortable

Space for Movement and Gathering

  • Comfortable for Diverse Sensory Needs

  • Comfortable Approach and Reach

  • Environmental Relief