Special needs accessible playgrounds are on the increase. Why? Because last year the federal government made access to play areas a civil right under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The law applies to playgrounds built or altered after March 14, 2012.

Accessible Playgrounds and Parents

In August, National Public Radio (NPR) ran a story about how the federal law is making a difference in the lives of kids with special needs. This quote from the story shows the power of parents and advocates in the special needs community:

But as NPR sought to explore the effects of the new rules, it found that parents and advocates are making the real difference — not the federal government. The higher cost of “inclusive” playgrounds means many local governments can’t afford them. And in places that do offer the kind of shared playing experience contemplated by the ADA, a group of frustrated parents is typically behind it all.

Now, doesn’t that give your sense of frustration an element of purpose? As the article goes on to say, when parents of kids get frustrated, things get done.

To read the entire article, which is definitely worth a read, visit For Kids with Special Needs, More Places to Play.

Give a Shout Out to an Accessible Playground You Know About

Know of a great accessible playground? Give it a shout out in the comment box below. Thanks!

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