Giving every child the means to live their childhood to the full
At Proludic, inclusion is a key aspect of our philosophy as we believe that all children should have access to the same play facilities.
This is not a question of glossing over differences, but on the contrary, making them accepted through the medium of play equipment and facilities that are accessible to all. We want to help children play together in a friendly environment to prevent isolation and allow all children to develop at their own pace and within their capacities. Inclusion benefits everyone, both children with and without disabilities, because it allows them to learn from others.
Working with experts (researchers, health professionals, universal design specialists, associations for children with disabilities), we have identified the specific needs of less able children in play areas and implemented measures that can be taken to ensure accessibility for all. Our discussions have enabled us to provide solutions in terms of play equipment and designs that are relevant, adapted and never stigmatising, neither in their use nor in their perception.
Inclusive play equipment that has meaning
Our play equipment is ranked according to the level of inclusion, on a scale of 1 to 3 (ranking based on the standards of the ADA – American with Disabilities Act). These inclusion levels are shown on our product pages and the products can be filtered according to the level indicated.
Multi-play equipment
Accessibility for children with reduced motor skills is encouraged by the presence of ramps, low platforms, ground-based play opportunities and secure steps.
The play activities, located inside and outside the structures, help with the development of mobility, fine motor skills, cognitive faculties and provide sensory stimulation. There are multiple easy-access entrances so that accompanying persons can share and encourage play activities or intervene quickly if needed.
Playhouses
Designed with wide entrances, supportive elements and sufficient room inside for freedom of movement, playhouses offer accessibility for all children. The layout of play elements inside and outside the structure allow access for children in a wheelchair.
The playhouses are also ideal for children with autism. They are a safe space where children can isolate themselves in a quiet space and observe there surroundings.
Swings
Swinging has positive effects on the inner ear of children with auditory impairments and a calming effect on children with cognitive disorders. Feeling secure is essential to reassure children with visual or postural impairments. The seats are therefore of the wraparound or pod type fixture to ensure the back is in the correct position and provides body stability during the activity.
The children can use the wheelchair-accessible swing as it is directly accessible from the ground without the need for transfer.
Springers
With backrests, side panels, handles and footrests, Springers are quite easily accessible by children with motor impairments and enable the body to be held in position during the play activity, even when the rocking quickens. The oscillating movement of Springers can also have a calming effect on autistic children.
Rotating equipment
Rotational movement has a positive effect on the inner ear for hearing-impaired children. Handles, wide and recessed seating with lateral protection elements are essential for making children with limited core stability feel safe and secure. Rotating equipment with a low platform offers easy transfer for children in wheelchairs.
Themed play opportunities
Themed equipment develops the imagination, fantasy and social interactions, even in children with cognitive impairments.
Access for children with motor impairments is ensured using ramps, wide entrances, wheelchair-height play panels and features which provide grip and stability.
Trampolines
When they jump, children improve their posture and become aware of how their body feels in space. On the ground-level trampoline, children in a wheelchair can position themselves in the center and – with the help of an accompanying person – gently experience the sensation of bouncing.
Musical flowers
Musical flowers offer multi-sensory stimulation. Each flower is engraved with two elements with bright complementary colours. Each flower emits a specific sound when the central part is rotated. Children with visual, auditory, motor ,or intellectual impairments will encounter appropriate types of stimulation from this equipment. Plus, the curved shape of each stem provides optimal user-friendliness for children in wheelchairs.
Play panels
Installed at ground level with low components, play panels are suitable for children with motor impairments.
The contrasting colours of the panels and play elements stimulate visual acuity and help children identify and understand the activities.
Musical panels are tactile play activities that are easy to use. The sounds they emit stimulate children’s auditory capacities.
Sports equipment and fitness stations
Our sports equipment helps develop motor skills, muscle strength, posture control, self-esteem and team spirit. The benefits are numerous, irrespective of physical, intellectual or sensory capacities.
The ergonomic design and height of the fitness stations enable easy access for people in wheelchairs or reduced mobility. The armrests, in addition to their role in the muscular exercise to be performed, help retain the seated position and help disabled users stay well balanced.
The inclusive play area, an overall reflection on the products used and layout of the space
Children with disabilities are considered right from the start of any new project. Integration objectives are defined at this stage and then applied in practice to the entire project.
Whether it be the choice of equipment, the type of activities sought, flooring specification, access and movement within the recreational play area, access up to to the play area, the use of adapted furniture, specific signage… every aspect must be studied to ensure the success of a design that is accessible to as many people as possible.
Client testimonial – Municipal play area – Notre-Dame-de-Gravenchon
This play area is a way to raise children’s awareness about disabilities. Each detail was designed to allow all children, with and without disabilities, to play together without any difference between them. Proludic listened to us and was able to find a solution that was suited to our needs.
Fabienne Beaudoin-Vaucelle – Deputy Mayor in charge of Education, Youth and Sports
Do you have an inclusive play area project?
Request or view our ‘Inclusive Play Areas’ catalogue which illustrates our strong commitment to children with disabilities. It features appropriate solutions in terms of products and facilities to ensure the play area is a space for everyone.
