RETROFITS BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO EXISTING PLAYGROUNDS

THE BAND PLAYS ON: Outdoor musical instruments are a great way to refresh playground designs for inclusion, as they offer sensory-rich benefits for all abilities.

The process of retrofitting a playground can involve replacing or upgrading existing components and adding fresh new components. A retrofit can address both the primary playground structures – like slides and swings – as well as other aspects of the playground, like surfacing and shade. New products can

be incorporated into the play structure or added as freestanding components. Best of all, these new or upgraded elements can be specifically designed with disability and inclusion in mind, to help make the space more inclusive for people of all abilities.

The groups that manage playgrounds, such as parks and recreation departments, schools, and other community organizations, appreciate retrofitting as an option, for several reasons. First, it's an approach with sustainable benefits because it makes use of the playground's existing components. Retrofitting also costs less than a full playground replacement, allowing for a range of options to suit different budgets and funding levels. It can often be done in a shorter timeframe, minimizing the time a playground is closed – which is a priority for everyone, most especially the kids themselves!

OPTIONS FOR ADAPTIVE PLAY

Since 2010, playgrounds have been required to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which is why people tend to make physical accessibility the first priority when discussing inclusivity. And yes, inclusive playgrounds should always be accessible to people who have differing levels of mobility and for people using mobility devices. However, that only scratches the surface when it comes to the needs of the larger community of disabled people and what a retrofit can bring to a playground to support that community.

Here are a few playground upgrades that can be retrofitted to support a variety of needs and types of play.

MUSICAL PLAY

Music-themed elements are a convenient option when refreshing a playground for inclusion. They offer rich sensory benefits for all – even those who are deaf or hard of hearing can experience them through the vibrations of the instruments.

Musical play is multigenerational, so kids and adults of all ages can get involved, and it fosters creativity. Musical play also benefits those who use mobility devices, as it's an activity that doesn't require transferring out of a device to use. Additionally, individuals who are blind or low vision often use the sound from musical instruments to help orient them as to where they are in the play space.

SCAVENGER HUNTS

Changing out activity panels may seem like a relatively small change, but it can make a big difference in the playground experience. One popular option is "seek and find" panels that create an interactive experience as kids search for pictures or symbols across the playground. These panels also can be installed in different areas, including at the ground level, making it simple for kids of all abilities to gather and work together to complete the activities.

STORY TRAILS

Sometimes, the same element can encourage opportunities to both be still and get moving. Story trails, which tell a story across several panels located in different parts of the playground, and "Talking is Teaching" panels from the Clinton Foundation's Too Small to Fail program, promote children's early brain and vocabulary development. They encourage kids and their parents or caregivers to talk, read and sing together. Not only can this type of activity help kids develop their language skills, but it encourages movement and play throughout the play space and along walkways.

VIBRANT COLORS

A fresh paint job will modernize any space – but it also makes a playground more inclusive. Faded or monochromatic playground elements can create challenges for people who are low vision or have a color deficiency. Introducing brighter colors with greater contrast makes it easier to gauge depth perception and brings the playground space to life in new and exciting ways.

SHADE AND SHELTER

While everyone needs to be mindful of how much time they spend in the sun, people with disabilities are often hyper aware of heat exposure due to medications they're taking or levels of injury. Integrating more shade into a playground can give all visitors breaks from direct exposure to the sun and help individuals with disabilities avoid risk. This is also a great way to reinvigorate underused playground areas and make them more appealing and accessible for all.

ENHANCED SIGNAGE

In addition to adding signage that helps playground visitors find their way around, a retrofit can introduce signage that assists with communication. Panels with universal