The creation of inclusive playspaces requires a new way of thinking about the way playspaces are planned, designed and managed. The 3 principles of Everyone Can Play promote thinking towards creating more inclusive playspaces across NSW.
The 3 principles
Can I get there?
Consider location, layout, adequate signage, wayfinding and accessibility to ensure everyone can find their way to, in and around the playspace.
Can I play?
The play experience, including the equipment and surfacing, should allow everyone to experience a variety of challenging and engaging play opportunities in a way that suits them.
Can I stay?
Consider safety, facilities, landscape and the wider environment to ensure everyone can stay at the playspace for as long as they would like.
Tips to make it easier for everyone
Find their way
- You can easily navigate to, in and around the playspace in an intuitive way.
- There’s a gateway or sense of arrival to the playspace.
- There are pause points at all entries to pace introduction to the activity zones.
- The playspace is linked to pedestrian and cycle paths.
- There are toilets, food and parking amenities nearby.
- Information about the playspace is available before visiting.
- A public transport link, like a bus stop or train station, is nearby.
- Signage is easy to read, using simple language, graphics and high colour contrast.
- Access gates can be operated by an adult using a wheelchair or mobility device.
- No barriers, including main road crossings and kerbs, exist.
Play
- There are a range of adaptable play opportunities for people of different sizes, abilities and ages.
- The basic supporting elements of the playspace (gates, furniture and pathways) are universally designed.
- You can personalise the playspace experience and interact with others through flexible use.
- There are interesting play opportunities provided for everyone.
- People can decide how they want to play and with who.
- There are informal and imaginative play opportunities that encourage creativity.
- Sensory focused and natural elements, like music, sand and water, are included.
- All playspace equipment, fall zones and surfacing complies with relevant Australian standards.
- There are quiet points for rest and passive interaction.
- Equipment is designed so adults can fit in or under.
Stay
- The playspace is a welcoming community place that people find comfortable and secure.
- There is a central gathering point with seating and shade to promote social interaction and carer respite.
- There are multiple seating options with sufficient circulation space.
- There are picnic and barbeque facilities in a central location.
- There’s a passive lawn area for rest and quiet play.
- There are clear sight lines to all play equipment pieces from pathways and seating to ensure comfortable supervision.
- There are sufficient boundary enclosures to provide a secure environment.
- Supporting amenities, like the toilet and carpark, are adequately lit.
- Rubbish bins can be utilised by all playspace users.
- There are visual links to the local context outside the playspace that contribute to the sense of play.