Playgrounds for all Ages
It is true that we all have a bit of the kid inside us and when we take our children, grandchildren or younger siblings to a playground, we would like to play as well. We do in away, but we are not allowed on any of the equipment that is provided. Having playground equipment that can be used by all, and I mean all ages, would be a great leap forward in the enjoyment families can spend together.
A Professor Killingsworth from Pittsburg State University’s Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation, thinks the same way and has formed (with other community members) a non-profit group called Credible Arts Therapies. He has said the idea behind a universally accessible playground is to have a place where everyone, regardless of age or disability, can play together on the same equipment. You can read more about this here: http://www.joplinglobe.com/local/local_story_178210855.html
When you think about it, this really is possible, having a playground that allows for every age, is not going to be difficult to design and certain pieces, that already exist could just be made larger. The other aspect, is to have playgrounds more accessible for people with disabilities. This does not mean you have to have a separate area in the playground, or any different equipment (though some pieces will have to be looked at a bit more), but that the materials used are sufficient.
With the materials I mean that recycled rubber and rubber mulch should be used instead of wood chips and traditional sand. The ease of access for wheelchairs is paramount and even some buggy’s have trouble on the surfaces that are used today.
Lou Ann Coyler, who is a coordinator for the Southwest Kansas Independent Living Resource Center and is working with the Credible Arts Therapies, has mentioned using outdoor musical instruments. These can put up with the weather and are great fun to play with. Lou Ann Coyler has also said, ’A lot of nursing homes stress music therapy to help calm people and get them involved and out of their shells.
Lets join these pioneers of play and all get out into the playgrounds, see what needs changing and get something done. Our children will love it and their children will thank us for it.
