As the importance of inclusion grows within outdoor recreation, organizations frequently find themselves eager to create change but uncertain of where to begin.
An excellent starting point could be integrating playground shade into your existing space. Shade structures can cool down your park during those hot summer breaks, allowing people of all abilities to play outside for longer periods of time.
Read on to learn how playground shade can cultivate an inclusive mindset within your community and find out the answer to that burning question – “are there any shaded playgrounds near me?”
What is Inclusion?
The American Psychological Association defines equity, diversity, and inclusion as “… a conceptual framework that promotes the fair treatment and full participation of all people… providing resources according to the need to help diverse populations achieve their highest state of health and other functioning.” This contextualizes inclusion as not just being present but equipping everyone with the tools needed to actively participate in any activity.
We envision inclusive environments as spaces that are "welcoming, active, supportive, equitable, and diverse." These environments foster connections among individuals of various backgrounds and abilities, united by the universal language of play.
Inclusive outdoor spaces are not simply offering attractions that appeal to different populations within the park. Instead, they integrate diverse interests into a single playful experience, where everyone can learn and grow together.
7 Principles of Inclusive Design
Our parent company, PlayCore, is committed to utilizing research to explore how outdoor recreation can cultivate an inclusive mindset within communities nationwide. Their guidebook, 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design, outlines best practice design methods that consider the whole child, whole environment, and whole community - fostering inclusivity at every level.
The seventh principle, “Be Comfortable,” states the following regarding playground sun shade:
Integrating a balance of exposure and relief to environmental conditions such as sunlight, shade, water, and wind considers the needs and preferences of individuals with sensitivities or special medical conditions. The more comfortable the environment, the more likely visitors will stay and engage in play for longer periods of time.
The 7 Principles Guide recommends the following methods for leveraging shade to foster inclusivity:
- Combining both manufactured playground shade structures and natural shade elements, such as trees.
- Construct shade structures and pavilions along an accessible route with firm and stable surfacing.
Creative Playground Shade Uses
Many communities have found innovative ways to incorporate shade structures that enhance the storytelling within their parks. The examples below illustrate this ingenuity.
Delano Manongs Park embraced a creative approach to their shade structures by designing them as giant flowers, complementing the park's nature theme. These structures enhance the park's overall narrative and add to its storytelling.
Indian Beach Park Playground features large triangular shade structures that cover the entire play area, encouraging children to stay active for longer periods of time. The use of vibrant, multicolored shades enhances the space, further immersing children in the aquatic theme.
Sycamore Elementary employs both shade structures and themed roofs to keep children out of the sun. The combination of brown uprights and green shades creates a tree-like illusion, beautifully complemented by the rustic treehouse roofs.
Young’s Creek Park transforms its playground into an art installation with playful and eccentric shade styles. These shades are seamlessly integrated into the play system, resulting in a more refined and cohesive design.
Fostering Inclusion Through Playground Shade
Maya Angelou famously said, “We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color.” In a playground setting, shade structures can be envisioned as one of the many threads, entangling itself in a larger mission of defining a truly inclusive space.
Tapestries are often not completed in one sitting. Artists take their time, weaving with intent. At GameTime, we’re here to empower your vision for inclusion, collecting the threads so you can create a tapestry that reflects the needs of your community. Contact a representative today to learn more about our shade offerings and plan your inclusive space.
