Why do we need inclusive playgrounds?

For people with disabilities, inclusive playgrounds mean better access to spaces for play, recreation, and exercise.

Many people with disabilities have other health challenges and exercise less often than people without disabilities. People with disabilities also experience more negative feelings and stress. Inclusive playgrounds provide the opportunity for people with disabilities to increase their exercise and play with others. Play develops social skills in three major areas—it allows for opportunities of independence, trying new things in a safe place, and interacting with others. These are important skills that help in all areas of life. 

For people without disabilities, inclusive playgrounds mean the opportunity to be part of a stronger community.

About 1 in 10 children in public schools have a disability. And, about 1 in 5 Marylanders have a disability.* The more community members of all ages and abilities interact and build relationships, the stronger the community becomes. The National Recreation and Parks Association explains that inclusive playgrounds can “bring people together and celebrate the diversity of communities in which they live.” 

*Data about people with disabilities includes information about adults and information about children. Adults are people over 18 years old and children are people under 21 years old. The number of adults with disabilities is about 1 in 5 Marylanders. This is the data for adults who are not in institutions (for example, prison or the army). The number of children with disabilities is about 1 in 10 in public schools. This data is limited, which means it is the best estimate we have. The real number of people with disabilities may be higher.