A Playground Pinky-Promise
April 15, 2023
Dear Architects and Landscape Architects and Engineers and Government Officials and Organization Leaders,
Can we pinky promise something?
Can we all agree that when we:
decide to build a new playground for children,
set aside hundreds of thousands of dollars for a new playground for children,
are hired to design a new playground for children,
we build it so ALL children can play on it?
We will make sure the surface is solid so all children can walk, wheel, sit, lay, or crawl on it.
We will make sure there is shade for everyone.
We will have play structures that all children can use, regardless of their physical or developmental abilities.
We will include ramps and transfer systems where needed.
We will include calmer areas and sensory rich areas.
Today I came across two more BRAND NEW local playgrounds in my area that are not made for all children. A lot of money was put into them and they will remain this way for the next 15-20 years. And just adding an accessible swing does not make a playground inclusive.
The Motion Junction playground in Canandaigua has so much to teach us. It’s the first universally designed and certified playground in the country.
I am so glad it is there.
So why would we continue to create new, expensive playgrounds that leave some children out?
How can we use what one playground has shown is possible to ensure all children have fun and safe places to play in their own towns and neighborhoods?
AND…
Dear Everyone Else,
If you hear about a new playground being planned, PLEASE speak up. Let those who are part of the planning know how important it is for ALL children to play.
XOXO,
Jenn