Inclusive Playgrounds
We understand that ability is a spectrum and people land at each point along the spectrum. Playgrounds should be created to provide opportunities for everyone. ADA design solutions focus primarily on physical access for people with mobility and vision issues. We consider this a base level of accessibility and may include ramps and transfer stations. Truly inclusive designs create environments that are easy to get into and around. By design, the spaces promote play between children of all abilities rather than create separate zones or areas or one ‘accessible’ piece of equipment. These play spaces balance physical with sensory and imaginative play. This leaves all children feeling included, respected, and independent.
Learning Landscapes is a leader in inclusive play design. We create spaces that feature carefully selected equipment in inviting settings while incorporating nature playscapes features where appropriate. Our playscapes are inviting, inclusive, and irresistible! You can read more about our inclusive play approach.
Nature Playscapes
Designing and building nature playscapes that are infused with nature results in spaces that are beautiful, and advantageous for children and communities. Natural playscapes have been one of our main specialties for over 10 years! We have designed almost 100 natural play spaces. Nature connection is a powerful grounding experience for anyone. In the last few years, research has exploded about the benefits of nature exposure in play from reduced stress, to higher risk tolerance, to greater social and language skills. Natural playground designs often incorporate some physical play in the form of logs, boulders, and rope climbers as well as some sensory and imaginative spaces such as sand and water play and living willow domes. Our team applies national safety guidelines (ASTM and CPSI) and professional best practices to create a design that is fun but is also maintainable and accounts for safety. We know your programming and maintenance teams are probably not familiar with using and maintaining a nature playscape. We have created Natural Play Area Management and Maintenance Guidelines to help you utilize your space to its full extent. They include daily, monthly, and yearly safety review check sheets, example language for risk management, the intent behind the design, and maintenance directions.
Loose Parts Play & Child Directed Play
How do you transform a simple (or complicated!) outdoor area into a rich, engaging play environment?
Adding a variety of loose parts to your outdoor area creates a playground for the imagination; the ultimate testing ground for brain development and inquiry-based exploration. (But don’t tell the kids. For them it is all about play!) Deep learning and brain development happen when a child has free will over their play and can explore, test, and adjust their environment. This is the heart of STEM play with loose parts. Children need more time and rich inviting spaces to inspire this level of engagement and brain development. A few examples of these spaces include a natural playscapes laboratory where children can mix, pour, crush, pick plants, and combine natural elements. A play stream also creates an ideal environment for engaged child-driven play and is greatly enhanced by loose parts such as scoops, boards to make bridges, sand to block water, and buckets.
Loose parts and child-directed play often support pedagogy already being taught in your program. If you want a high-quality and engaging outdoor nature playscapes, create spaces that are rich with loose parts. The right environment and components help reduce maintenance, clean up, and misuse. Reach out and let Learning Landscapes Design help you implement a loose-parts strategy.
