Inclusive Play
Every child has the right to play, to have the opportunity to join in and play with others, regardless of the child’s physical or intellectual abilities. Inclusive play matters. It is about enabling children to be a part of a community, making a difference, encouraging them to improve social interactions, engaging and making new friends. Inclusive play is more than just about the play equipment but offering the chance to enjoy all aspects of play that include the physical, social and sensory.
The Essence of Inclusive is to Encourage Everyone to Take Part
When designing an inclusive play space, it has to be free from restrictions and accessible to all, whether the child has a disability or not, whilst considering the different needs. The playground has to offer a balance of play experiences for all abilities as well as the development of social and cognitive skills.
The playscape should enable diversity, providing play experiences from both ground and elevated levels. These should allow different levels of motor challenges and sensory experiences to be gained. Having lots of entrances and openings helps encourage play interactions between children inside and outside the play space. Not only is having the open spaces a benefit to the children, it also opens up the opportunity for the children, parents or carers to share and learn from one another, creating a barrier free community.