Accessible Design
Accessibility typically refers to minimum accessibility standards set forth under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Utilizing the ADA as a guide for minimum standards is important; however, at Active Playground Equipment, we believe the joy of active play shouldn’t be limited by developmental ability. When designing our inclusive playground equipment we carefully examine the accessibility and play value for children of all abilities. To achieve truly inclusive play we at Active employ the ideal of Universal Design.
Understanding Inclusivity and Universal Design
Universal design is “the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design” (Centre for Universal Design, 1997).
Inclusivity and Universal Design is a philosophy of playground design that allows children to play side-by-side regardless of developmental ability. Marrying the concepts of Inclusivity and Universal Design creates an inclusive playground without zone-prejudice allowing all children to enjoy active play inclusively, regardless of developmental ability.
At Active Playground, we believe in more than just accessibility; we value each child, their unique abilities and their right to experience and enjoy truly inclusive play. Our line of inclusive playground equipment is designed with children’s unique developmental and accessibility needs mind. It is our mission to create inclusive playground equipment that promotes unity across children of all abilities and creates opportunities for active play on inclusive playgrounds across Canada.