Giving every child the means to live their childhood to the full
At Proludic, inclusion is a key aspect of our philosophy because we believe that all children should have access to play and to the same play facilities.
This is not a question of glossing over differences, but on the contrary making them accepted through the medium of play equipment and facilities that are accessible to all. We want to help children play together in a friendly environment to prevent isolation and allow all children to develop at their own pace and within their capacities. Inclusion benefits everyone, both children with and without disabilities, because it allows them to learn from others, even if they are different from oneself.
Working with experts (researchers, health professionals, universal design specialists, associations for children with disabilities), we have identified the specificities and needs of less able children in play areas and measures that can be taken to compensate for differences and ensure accessibility for all. Our discussions have enabled us to provide solutions in terms of play equipment and designs that are relevant, adapted and never stigmatising, neither in their use nor in their perception.
Inclusive play equipment that has meaning
Our play equipment is ranked according to level of inclusion, on a scale of 1 to 3 (ranking based on the standards of the ADA–American with Disabilities Act). These inclusion levels, illustrated by gauges, are shown on our product pages and the products can be filtered according to the level indicated.
Multi-play equipment
Accessibility for children with reduced motor skills is encouraged by the presence of a ramp, low floors, ground-based play opportunities and secure steps.
The play activities, located inside and outside the structures, help with development of mobility, fine motor skills, cognitive faculties and provide sensory stimulation. There are multiple easy-access entrances so that accompanying persons can share and encourage play activities or intervene quickly if needed.
Playhouses
Designed with wide entrances, supportive elements and sufficient room inside for freedom of movement, playhouses offer accessibility for all children. The layout of the play elements inside and outside the structure encourages use by children in a wheelchair.
The playhouses are also a response to the sensory profile of children with autism. They are a safe space where children can isolate themselves in a quiet space and observe in complete tranquillity.
Swings
Swinging has positive effects on the inner ear of children with auditory impairments and a calming effect on children with intellectual disorders. Retention in position is essential to reassure children with visual or postural impairments. The seats are therefore of the wraparound or pod type to ensure the back is in the correct position and provide body stability during the activity.
The wheelchair-accessible swing is directly accessible from the ground without transfer.
Springers
With backrests, side panels, handles and footrests, Springers are quite easily accessible by children with motor impairments and enable the body to be held in position during the play activity, even if they quicken the pace. The rocking movement of Springers also has a calming effect for autistic children.
Rotating equipment
The rotational movement has a positive effect on the inner ear for hearing-impaired children. Handles, wide and recessed seating with lateral protection elements are essential for making children with limited trunk stability feel safe and secure. Rotating equipment with a low platform offers easy transfer for children in wheelchairs.
Themed play opportunities
Themed equipment develops the imagination, fantasy and interaction, even in children with intellectual impairments whose mental and representational structuring abilities are less well developed.
Access by children with motor problems is ensured by means of ramps, wide entrances, wheelchair-height play panels and elements providing grip and stability.
Trampolines
When they jump, children become aware of how their body feels in space and improve their posture. On the ground-level trampoline, children in a wheelchair can position themselves in the centre and – with the help of an accompanying person – gently experience the sensation of bouncing.
Sensory Flowers
The Sensory Flowers offer multi-sensory stimulation. Each flower is made up of two elements with bright complementary colours and are engraved on one side. Each flower emits a specific sound when the central part is rotated. Children with visual, auditory, motor or intellectual impairments will encounter appropriate types of stimulation via this equipment. Plus, the curved shape of each stem means optimal user-friendliness for children in wheelchairs.
Play panels
Installed at ground level with low components, play panels are suitable for children with motor impairments.
The contrasting colours of the panels and play elements stimulate visual acuity and help children identify and understand the activities.
Musical panels are tactile play activities that are easy to use. The sounds they emit stimulate children’s auditory capacities.
Sports equipment and fitness stations
Our sports equipment helps develop motor skills, muscle strength, posture control, self-esteem and team spirit. The benefits are numerous, irrespective of physical, intellectual or sensory capacities.
The ergonomic design and height of the fitness stations enables easy access for people with reduced mobility or in wheelchairs. The armrests, in addition to their role in the muscular exercise to be performed, help retain the seated position and help disabled users stay well balanced.
The inclusive play area, an overall reflection on the products used and layout of the space
Children with disabilities are considered right from the start of any new development project. Integration objectives are defined at this point and then applied in practice to the entire project.
Choice of equipment, definition of the motor or stimulation activities sought, the type of flooring, movement within the recreational area, access to the play area, presence of adapted furniture, specific signage… every aspect must be studied to ensure the success of a design that is accessible to as many people as possible.
Client testimonial – Municipal play area – Notre-Dame-de-Gravenchon
This play area is a way to raise children’s awareness about disabilities. Each detail was designed to allow all children, with and without disabilities, to play together without any difference between them. Proludic listened to us and was able to find a solution that was suited to our needs.
Fabienne Beaudoin-Vaucelle – Deputy Mayor in charge of Education, Youth and Sports
Do you have an inclusive play area project?
Request or consult our award-winning ‘Inclusive Play Areas’ Guide which illustrates our strong commitment to children with disabilities. It features appropriate solutions in terms of products and facilities to ensure the play area is a space for everyone.
