Well-designed inclusive playgrounds and parks welcome people and especially children of all abilities to play, learn and grow together, writes General Recreation Inc. of Newtown Square.

But more than that, an inclusive playground can be multi-generational, meaning adults can actively engage with children in their care, and become a true community gathering place.

They are a welcome resource for parents with disabilities (wounded veterans, for example) and an aging caregiver population who want to interact with the children in their care.

General Recreation works with Landscape Structures to create inclusive play areas featuring activities that are age and developmentally- appropriate, sensory stimulating and universally designed.

They follow the philosophy of Universal Design, a theory of design that makes environments more usable, safer and healthier for all.

Universal Design

Universal design improves human performance, health and wellness, and social participation, according to the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access out of the University of Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning.

While it benefits everyone, regardless of their condition, it does not mean that the fun and risks of a park are eliminated. Instead, it helps create a place where all can play, learn and grow together.

A successful inclusive play space will offer a sensory-rich environment that enables children to develop physically, socially and emotionally.

It should be an engaging place that provides the just-right level of challenge and offers opportunities to succeed.

It will be a place that goes beyond minimum accessibility to create play experiences that meet a variety of needs and interests. To help get you started on your own inclusive playground project, visit here.

About General Recreation

General Recreation Inc. serves Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, and has helped hundreds of community leaders and organizations build playgrounds that are safe, aesthetically pleasing and made to last.

General Recreation project are supported by expert and trusted services, including site evaluation, playground design, installation and community build services.

Whether your playground will consist of outdoor playground at a pre-school or a large community playground, experienced commercial playground experts will help you every step of the way. Find out more about the work of General Recreation.

Find out more about General Recreation.