Article published on 17 September 2024
When we talk about inclusive playgrounds, we think primarily of meeting the needs of children with disability. But what about the adults who accompany them? Adults, whether they have permanent or temporary disability, or older people with limited mobility, are just as crucial to consider when designing accessible and inclusive playspaces. Is the diagnosis inclusive?
Recently, our Commercial Manager, Madeleine Walding, experienced this firsthand.
“After undergoing foot surgery, I found myself temporarily disabled and in need of a mobility aid (crutches) to get around. I took the opportunity to visit one of our inclusive playgrounds at Bert Payne Park in Newport, as a learning exercise. This playground, built in 2016, was designed with knowledge we gained from the first edition of our Inclusive Play Areas Guide, alongside our expert design team and Northern Beaches Council. I wanted to evaluate how well the design had held up and how inclusive it truly was. Especially from the perspective of someone with restricted mobility.”
Assessment with the Inclusive Diagnosis Tool
To make the most of her visit, Madeleine brought along our new Inclusive Diagnosis Tool. Proludic developed it alongside the new edition of our Inclusive Play Areas Guide. This tool is designed to help councils, schools and landscape architects assess the inclusion of both existing and future play spaces. When developing the Inclusive Diagnosis Tool, we drew on insights from our team at the “Proludic Observatory” as well as leading experts in the field. We combined this knowledge to create a comprehensive guideline tool that highlights areas where accessibility can be improved and ensures designs are as inclusive as possible.
The playground
Overall, the playground was performing very well. At the time of visit many children were having a great time with fellow adventurers as well as with accompanying parents and carers. The play equipment was thoughtfully chosen, allowing children and adults of diverse abilities to enjoy a range of activities. Fun awaits all from the Inclusive Roundabout to the trampoline, and group play opportunities that encouraged social interaction and imaginative play. Sensory panels and musical play equipment enriched the interactive experience for all users. Active children were challenged with the IXO climbing equipment, and there were a variety of swings to choose from. Importantly for carers, there were plenty of seats to rest on, and park furniture to support extended visits.
Madeleine’s inclusion conclusion
“I did identify a few areas for improvement, especially in terms of access:
Access from the car park
A few years after the playground was completed, a fitness area was added nearby. Unintentionally, this addition made it more difficult to access the playground from the currently available accessible car space, as the new fitness area had been installed where the original accessible car space was. For someone using crutches or a mobility aid, even small barriers like steps or uneven surfaces can create challenges. Level access from the carpark is critical, and making adjustments here would significantly improve the experience.
Entrances and exits
The playground had easy-to-access entry points. Since the implementation we’ve learned that using a brightly coloured gate contrasting with the fence colour significantly improves visibility. This would make these entrances even easier to identify. Adding clear entrance signs would also be helpful.
Changes in level
Moving around with a mobility aid made me realize how crucial level surfaces are. Even slight changes in slope can feel daunting. Incorporating handrails where there are changes in level greatly increases confidence and safety for both children and adults with mobility challenges. It was easy to move around within the playground as it is all on one level. The biggest challenge was moving from the car park to the playground entrance pathway.
Signage and communication boards
While the equipment itself was well-designed, the lack of signage was a missed opportunity. Adding a playground layout sign at the entrance and communication boards would help guide users and provide valuable information about the equipment and how it can be used.”
What we would improve
If we were to reassess Bert Payne Playground today, our key recommendations would include:
- Improving the accessible parking space and ensuring a seamless, level path from the carpark to the playground.
- Gates in contrasting colours and additional entrance signs to enhance visibility.
- Implementing communication boards and additional signage to enhance the experience for all users.
Overall, the playground performed well as an inclusive space. However, this experience emphasised the importance of continuous evaluation and improvement in inclusive playground design. Using tools like the Inclusive Diagnosis Assessment allows us to identify potential issues and ensure that every playspace is welcoming and fun for people with diverse abilities.
We continue to learn and improve, so that every child, parent, or grandparent that visits, can fully enjoy inclusive play.
Do you need an Inclusive Diagnosis? Contact us via the form below.
Recent
Funtastic Annual Meeting
Article published on 21 November 2024
At this year’s funtastic annual meeting, we combined valuable learning with plenty of play – a perfect mix of business and pleasure! Our team came together to share insights, exchange ideas, and deepen our connection with each other and the playgrounds we design. This day was not just about reviewing projects; it was about celebrating...
Latest Outdoor Fitness Equipment
Article published on 30 September 2024
Innovation ACTI’vation Imagine stepping into a park or recreational area where fitness and fun seamlessly blend into an experience that engages all members of the community. Picture fun outdoor fitness equipment, playful Ninja courses, and interactive workouts designed to encourage movement and play. This is the future of outdoor fitness, and it’s brought to you...
