Communications & Education Manager BCI Burke North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Every person deserves the opportunity to experience the joy, development and social benefits of being outdoors in their community. This presentation highlights the importance of Universal Design in creating outdoor spaces that cater to all ages and abilities, ensuring that everyone has access to meaningful and engaging experiences. Our discussion takes us beyond basic accessibility to create environments where children can interact, explore and grow together, building a stronger sense of community while they play.
Learning Outcomes:
Participants will be able to articulate the role of play in child development and give examples of how it impacts community health and engagement.
Define an inclusive playground in comparison to one that is accessible and explain the importance and benefits of a universally designed, inclusive playground and describe the array of events that contribute to inclusion.
Integrate requirements for ADA compliance into the design of an inclusive playground.
Use designs and case studies as examples of how universal design provides a framework for inclusive playgrounds that benefit communities.