What Is an Inclusive Playground?
An inclusive playground is intentionally designed to support children of all abilities, creating a welcoming play environment for everyone. These thoughtfully designed spaces include accessible playground equipment, barrier-free surfacing, and multisensory play experiences that encourage children to play, learn, and interact side by side. Inclusive playgrounds are essential because they promote equity, engagement, and a sense of belonging, giving every child the opportunity to grow through play.
Inclusive Play Solutions Designed to Bring Everyone Together
Case Study
The Bridge Recreation Complex Inclusive Playground
Ashleigh writes an in-depth case study on this playground
Browse Inclusive Play Systems
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ModelPS24022Age5 to 12 YearsZone57'-9" x 59'-4" (17.6m x 18.08m)Fall Height8' (2.44 m) -
ModelPS17025Age5 to 12 YearsZone50'-10" x 53'-1" (15.49m x 16.18m)Fall Height7' (2.13 m)Number of Children70 to 75 -
ModelPS24023Age5 to 12 YearsZone54'-0" x 83'-2" (16.46m x 25.35m)Fall Height12' (3.66 m) -
ModelPS24021Age5 to 12 YearsZone68'-5" x 63'-4" (20.85m x 19.3m)Fall Height8' (2.44 m) -
ModelPS23005Age5 to 12 YearsZone68'-6" x 59'-6" (20.88m x 18.13m)Fall Height8' (2.44 m) -
ModelPS22101Age5 to 12 YearsZone54'-2" x 62'-8" (16.51m x 19.1m)Fall Height5' (1.52 m)Number of Children90 to 95
Recognizing Communities for Turning Research Into Practice
National Demonstration Sites
National Demonstration Sites (NDS) exemplify evidence-based best practices in design and implementation, support health-related initiatives, and provide meaningful ways for community stakeholders to gather data about the sites’ impact on the community.
Inclusive playgrounds that meet the requirements for National Demonstration Site status are part of a nationwide data framework. As your park is utilized, we compile the usage data into useful reports that show the positive impact you're making on the community.
The 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design
Why Communities Trust GameTime for Inclusive Play
Discover testimonials from families and community members who have experienced our inclusive playgrounds.
"My son Will […] couldn’t ask for any place better—because it’s one thing to have it where it includes kids of all types and abilities. But when you can include their brothers and sisters, you can include their parents—that’s what every one of us wants."
Father, Cades Inclusive Playground
"I feel like I'm like all the other people. It makes me feel I'm not going to be left out."
Student, Ikard Elementary School
Partners for Inclusion
PlayCore's Center for Outreach, Research, and Education (CORE) partners with leading experts and scholars to develop guidebooks and curriculum to support inclusive play space design.
Utah State's Institute for Disability Research, Policy, & Practice (IDRPP) is a collection of four divisions and more than 150 projects related to disability nationwide.
Damian Buchman and the Ability Center are focused on buiding communities where all abilities are provided a universal opportunity for health, wellness and recreation.
Inclusive Play is dedicated to inclusive playgrond equipment that empowers children – no matter what their ability – to play together.
The Access Board is an independent federal agency that promotes equality for people with disabilities through leadership in accessible design and the development of accessibility guidelines and standards.
FAQs
Find answers to your questions about playground projects and funding requirements.
What funding opportunities are available for my project?
GameTime has compiled a list of local, regional, national, and global funding sources to help you find the funds you need. With over 100 pages of sources, including contact details, websites, and grant and deadline information, our Playground Funding Guide is a valuable part of any fundraising toolkit.
How long is a typical playground project?
Most projects take 4 to 6 months from initial design to completion. Our local representatives guide you through each phase, ensuring your project stays on schedule and minimizes disruption to school activities. Check out our Construction Guide and Checklist for more information. Need something quick? Check out our quick ship program or outlet store for reduced leads times.
How do you ensure playground compliance?
Industry standards set a minimum level that playground manufacturers must meet. We meet or exceed those standards, because we understand that the ultimate playground offers peace of mind as well as thrills. After all, we’re parents too. Learn more
What makes GameTime different?
GameTime brings play and recreation to people of all ages and abilities. Our local, experienced, and trusted team deploys research-based programs and education to deliver the most tailored playground and recreation environments in the world.
- Local Play Experts: GameTime representatives and certified playground installers live, work, and play in your neighborhood. We provide turnkey, personal service throughout all phases of your project.
- Play Researchers: As a PlayCore company, GameTime leverages the deep knowledge of the PlayCore Research Institute. This research drives our product development and playspace design.
- Green by Design: Our approach to sustainability encompasses every aspect of our company – from the way we manufacture our products, to how we do business.
- The Industry’s Best Warranty: Our products are constructed of durable, recyclable materials that are designed to last decades, not years.
- Certifications: Industry standards set a minimum level that playground manufacturers must meet. We meet or exceed those standards to create compliant playful spaces.
How can I create an inclusive play experience?
To ensure inclusivity, we apply The 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design® to create play environments where everyone can participate. Our focus is on both the physical and social aspects of inclusion, supporting the development of the whole child.
What kind of warranty is provided?
A new playground is an investment in the health, wellness, and quality of life for your community—and one that should last for years to come. GameTime manufactures our products using high-quality materials and backs them with one of the industry’s leading warranties, giving you peace of mind and helping you protect that investment.
What ongoing support is provided after installation?
Your local GameTime representative remains your dedicated point of contact long after installation. They provide:
- Regular check-ins and site visits
- Maintenance recommendations
- Replacement part assistance
- Support for future expansions or updates
How do you handle site preparation and installation?
Building a new playground for your community is an exciting event! Our network of certified installers help make the process fast and easy, but we know customers often have questions about building a playground. Our Construction Guide and Checklist will help ensure everything is ready for the big day!