Children with special needs are the focus of Park Meadows School in Lethbridge, Alberta. Principal Mark Blankenstyn was determined to make sure that all of his students could enjoy the playground with their peers. The goal was to create a an inclusive school playground. And so, the idea for the “Playground of Caring” was was born!

Designing a playground that was accessible, inclusive and fun for students of all abilities was the key goal. Equally important was accommodating children with behavioural or sensory exceptionalities. To accomplish this, the Blue Imp design team created a fully-ramped, multi-deck playground structure. A variety of freestanding pieces were added to supply climbing, swinging and spinning activities. Pour-in-place rubber surfacing ensures smooth access to all areas of the play space.

This inclusive school playground is “wheelchair playable”.  Students with mobility aids can roll right on to the Bouncing Buddy Bus to play with their friends.  They can even to roll all the way up to the top deck! Slides at low heights are accessible for students with sufficient upper body strength.

Swinging and spinning events provide fun for all children. These activities can also be comforting to children on the autism spectrum. Our multi-user U-Swing allows children with limited core strength to lie back and enjoy the experience of swinging.

Last but not least, a large climbing net and boulder bring challenge for kids who love to clamber and climb.

All in all, this inclusive school playground is truly a playground of caring!

https://globalnews.ca/news/4299031/park-meadows-school-unveils-accessible-and-all-inclusive-playground/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byx31RssAlY