Playground Equipment for Handicapped Children

An estimated six million children have limited access to traditional playgrounds because of a disability. Specially designed equipment can make playgrounds handicap-accessible and allow children of all abilities to interact without restrictions.

Function

Former U.S. Surgeon General Vice Admiral Richard H. Carmona said, "Play is at the core of a child's development and health." Children of all abilities playing together promote acceptance and understanding of each other.

Benefits

The biggest benefit of an inclusive playground is self-confidence. Every child can fully participate and explore all the playground has to offer. No space is off limits or too hard to get to.

Types

Specially shaped swings and bouncers with back support allow children who cannot stand the opportunity to feel the wind in their hair. Elevated activity panels and sand tables (instead of sand boxes) mean children in wheelchairs can participate alongside their friends.

Cost

The expense of a fully accessible playground can be prohibitive. Communities frequently lobby local companies for volunteers and charitable contributions. Universal playgrounds cost 20 to 25 percent more than a non-wheelchair accessible playground.

Non-Profit

Boundless Playgrounds is a non-profit organization that provides assistance and advice to groups that want to build universal playgrounds.

Boundless Playgrounds, Inc.
280 Trumbull Street
23rd Floor
Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: [phone]
boundlessplaygrounds.org

References

• Disability Statistics
• Cost and Benefits
• Boundless Playgrounds