Direct Answer
We design for all children, focusing on inclusive engagement rather than just accessibility. The goal isn't just about providing ramps so every child can access every space; it's about fostering shared experiences and interactions.
True inclusion is about engagement. A design that over-emphasises accessibility can paradoxically create exclusion by singling a child out. Inclusive play design avoids "play bias"—loading one type of play in a way that excludes a child from the larger, shared experience.
Inclusion vs Accessibility: An Important Distinction
Accessibility focuses on physical access: ramps, wide pathways, transfer platforms, ground-level activities. It asks: "Can a child with a wheelchair get here?"
Inclusion goes further. It asks: "Can all children play together? Can they share experiences? Can they form connections?" Inclusion is about designing environments where every child belongs—not just physically present, but socially and emotionally engaged.
Accessible Approach
Add a ramp to the elevated platform so a wheelchair user can access the same space.
Inclusive Approach
Install speaking tubes that connect children on different levels, allowing interaction regardless of physical ability. The experience is shared, even if the location isn't identical.
Avoiding "Play Bias"
Play bias occurs when a playground loads heavily on one type of play, inadvertently excluding children whose strengths or preferences lie elsewhere. A playground dominated by climbing structures excludes children who can't climb—but also children who prefer creative play, social interaction, or sensory exploration.
Truly inclusive design offers diversity—multiple pathways to engagement that meet children where they are:
- Physical challenges at various ability levels
- Sensory experiences (tactile, auditory, visual, vestibular)
- Social spaces for interaction and cooperation
- Quiet zones for regulation and retreat
- Creative and imaginative play opportunities
Design Principles for Inclusion
Shared Experiences Over Identical Access
Children don't need to be in the same physical location to share an experience. Design for interaction across different positions and abilities.
Multiple Pathways
Offer different routes to the same play value. Some children climb; others use ramps; others engage from ground level—all can participate in the play narrative.
Graduated Challenge
Provide scalable challenges that children can approach at their own comfort level. What's thrilling for one child might be terrifying for another.
Sensory Consideration
Balance stimulation with calm. Include both activating experiences and regulating retreats for children with sensory processing differences.
Social Facilitation
Design spaces that naturally bring children together—facing benches, cooperative play elements, spaces for conversation and connection.
Dignity and Belonging
Avoid designs that single out or highlight difference. Integration should feel natural, not labelled or separated.
Practical Inclusive Elements
Communication and Connection
- Speaking tubes: Connect different levels and areas, enabling conversation across distances and heights
- Music walls: Create collaborative sound experiences accessible at various heights
- Sand and water tables: Social play at wheelchair-accessible heights
Movement and Sensory
- Inclusive swings: Bucket swings, nest swings, and inclusive harness swings
- Spinning elements: Accessible spinners and carousels
- Tactile panels: Textures, materials, and interactive elements at multiple heights
- Ground-level activities: Significant play value without elevation
Access and Navigation
- Flush transitions: Smooth surfaces between different play areas
- Wide pathways: Space for wheelchairs, walkers, and side-by-side walking
- Colour and contrast: Visual cues for children with vision impairment
- Quiet zones: Retreat spaces for regulation and respite
Designing for Specific Needs
While we design for all children rather than specific diagnoses, understanding common needs helps inform thoughtful design:
Physical Disabilities
Accessible pathways, transfer platforms, ground-level activities, inclusive swings, appropriate surfacing for mobility devices.
Autism Spectrum
Predictable environments, quiet retreat spaces, sensory-friendly elements, clear sightlines for supervision, reduced overwhelming stimuli.
Sensory Processing
Varied sensory inputs at different intensities, spaces for both stimulation and calming, proprioceptive and vestibular opportunities.
Vision Impairment
High contrast elements, tactile wayfinding, consistent textures for navigation, auditory play elements.
The Ultimate Goal: Belonging
A truly inclusive playground is one where no child feels like they don't belong. It's not about ticking compliance boxes or installing token accessible elements. It's about creating an environment where every child can:
- Find play experiences that match their abilities and interests
- Connect with other children through shared activities
- Challenge themselves at their own level
- Regulate when needed and return to play when ready
- Experience joy, mastery, and belonging
Key Takeaways
- Inclusion goes beyond accessibility—it's about shared experiences and belonging
- Avoid "play bias" by offering diverse play opportunities
- Design for interaction across abilities, not identical access
- Over-emphasising accessibility can paradoxically create exclusion
- Include sensory considerations for children who process differently
- Provide quiet retreat spaces alongside stimulating play
- The goal is belonging—every child feeling they're part of the experience
Ready to Create an Inclusive Playground?
Every cohort is unique, and inclusive design starts with understanding your children. Book a free discovery call to discuss your vision for a playground where every child belongs.
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