There is a clear need to provide play spaces for children that are otherwise excluded from standard play provision. However, designing for accessibility goes far beyond inclusion, by empowering and improving the whole community. Bringing people together to share a space and interact with each other reduces isolation and improves community cohesion. Accessible play design can be a starting principle that by its nature improves spaces for everyone.

So what does truly inclusive design look like?

Ongoing research is crucial, particularly in addressing invisible disabilities, such as those affecting neurodivergent children. Designing for diverse needs, including the provision of spaces like time-out areas and hideaways, is essential to accommodate children who may feel overwhelmed. The constant evolution of knowledge on these challenges highlights the ongoing effort required to strike a balance between accessibility and fulfilling the diverse play needs of children.

Join us to examine some of our latest projects and how we can place inclusion at the heart of the design process.

Designing Truly Inclusive Play Spaces