When a child with a disability can only access a piece of equipment alone, the space may be technically accessible, but it is not inclusive. Inclusive play design ensures every child can participate meaningfully, socially, and joyfully alongside their peers.
Parkequip are proud to be a distributor for Landscape Structures because their commitment to inclusion is embedded in every product they create. Their philosophy recognises that children experience the world in different ways, and that playgrounds must reflect this diversity. This is why they developed The Many Ways We Play, an invaluable resource authored by paediatric and adolescent occupational therapist Ariel Mansholt. The guide explores how children with diagnoses such as Autism, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Sensory Processing Disorder, and many others move, interact and engage with their environment. It also highlights the types of play features that best support each child’s experience. For councils, schools, and designers, this resource provides practical, evidence‑based insight into what truly inclusive play looks like on the ground.
Download a copy of The Many Ways We Play here
Landscape Structures takes this commitment even further through their Jr. Play Team — a group of children with disabilities who directly influence product development. Their lived experience shapes equipment that is not only functional, but genuinely meaningful. As Jr. Play Team president John Buettner explains, inclusion isn’t a design trend; it’s a promise to create spaces where every child feels welcome, capable and connected.
For project partners, the challenge — and opportunity — lies in selecting equipment and layouts that support a wide range of abilities, sensory needs and play styles. This may include full play systems with ramp access, transfer‑friendly structures, sensory-rich ground‑level activities, or freestanding inclusive pieces that encourage side‑by‑side interaction. When these elements come together, the result is a play space that fosters understanding, equality and acceptance through shared experience.
Parkequip consultants work closely with councils, schools, childcare centres and developers to design inclusive play environments tailored to community needs. Whether you’re planning a large-scale destination playground or enhancing an existing space with key inclusive elements, we help ensure every child can explore, participate and belong.
Inclusive play isn’t just good design — it’s good community building. When children grow up playing together, they grow up understanding one another. And that’s the foundation of a more connected, compassionate future.
Images supplied by Landscape Structures Inc
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