Outdoor play provides kids with the chance to explore the world around them and use their imagination. It is an integral element of their development. All ability playgrounds and accessible playgrounds create an environment that makes it easy for kids of all abilities to take part in fun and challenging outdoor play. All ability playgrounds use natural and built surroundings to encourage different types of play for children with a range of abilities.
You can find a list on the Queensland Government website here. However, your local Council website may also have listings. There’s an additional great list for Brisbane on the Brisbane Kids site here.
Accessible and inclusive play equipment
There is a wide range of playground equipment that has been specifically engineered to cater for children with different levels of ability. Here are some examples of equipment you might find at an all ability playground.
Wheelchair swings
Many playgrounds throughout Queensland have a wheelchair swing that enables a child in a wheelchair or with a physical impairment to experience the exhilaration of swinging through the air. These are often referred to as Liberty Swings. You can download a list on this page.
Wheelchair swing key
To use the wheelchair access swings in Queensland you will need a key. The above list of wheelchair access swings also includes information about where you can go to pick up a key for the wheelchair swing. You can also get in contact with your local council or Variety Queensland to order a wheelchair swing access key that will give you access to any swing Australia wide.
Accessible carousel
An accessible carousel is a high-backed merri-go-round. The design allows for wheelchairs to be locked in with no need for transfer. This equipment is available at George Clatron Park Wynnum and at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens.
Accessible sand digger and accessible sandpits
An accessible sand digger can be operated by children in wheelchairs as it is positioned on the edge of the sandpit. This equipment is not only fun it also helps to improve hand-eye coordination and motor skills while also encouraging imagination. You can find an accessible sand digger at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens. Accessible sand pits usually include a transfer station that allows children to transfer from wheelchairs into the accessible sand pit. In other cases, the sandpit is raised allowing for children to play with the sand while sitting in their wheelchair.
Choice boards
Choice boards allow children of all abilities to communicate with the people around them. This is a fantastic way for kids to improve their social skills and enjoy the company of a diverse range of people their age. Whites Hill Reserve, Camp Hill has a choice board, as does the playground at the Brisbane Botanic playground.
For more information about accessible and inclusive playgrounds and equipment in Queensland visit the Queensland Government Website.