Playgrounds are exciting places where children can freely use their imaginations and experience the joy of unstructured play. Playgrounds also help children develop social skills and participate in physical activities, promoting emotional and physical health. Children have a wide range of physical and cognitive needs that are sometimes not considered in regular playgrounds.
1.Find ways to engage multiple senses
Multi-sensory play experiences are an essential element of inclusive indoor playground design.
Children experience the world through their senses, exploring new experiences and orienting their
bodies in space. Inclusive playgrounds should include sensory elements that appeal to children of all
ability levels. Allowing children to develop their motor skills and problem-solving skills while playing
in their own way is a great way to encourage learning.
2.Different levels of challenges
All playgrounds should provide a place where children of all ages and abilities can play together.
Inclusive playgrounds need to meet a range of physical and cognitive needs. Games should always
be engaging and exciting, although children may have different preferences on how much they want
to challenge themselves. An inclusive playground makes it easy and fun for children to play at their
own pace.
Inclusive playgrounds should provide multiple levels of challenge for children with different abilities
and preferences. Every child has their own abilities and desires as to what kind of play equipment
they prefer. Some children are more physically mobile than others, while others prefer simple play
equipment. Adding inclusive indoor playground elements in a variety of difficulties ensures that every
visitor to your location can play the way they like and at the level they like.
When creating an inclusive indoor playground with different challenge levels, combine similar
equipment with different challenge levels. This will allow children to choose how they play based on
their ability level and preference, while also interacting with others.
3. Set aside calm areas
Creating calm, comfortable spaces in your inclusive indoor playground is crucial to providing a place for these children to rest.If your child is experiencing sensory overload, retreating to a tunnel or hidden tube can help them feel safe and comfortable. Enclosed spaces like hives and even under play structures with multiple nooks and crannies can be helpful, as long as they remain within sight of parents and caregivers. Provide some quiet space where children can recharge or regulate themselves before heading out to play.
4. Create space for social engagement
Playgrounds are environments full of social opportunities. Providing space for children to play and communicate allows them to learn social cues, make friends and deal with conflict. Children at different stages of development may find some social skills difficult, but having opportunities to build these skills in a safe place through play can encourage growth.
Designing an inclusive indoor playground requires careful consideration of the design, layout, and elements of the playground. Inclusive playgrounds often require creative solutions to bring children together and meet their play needs. Providing children with opportunities for active play is our passion and we are leaders in finding new ways to do so.
