How to Design an Inclusive Indoor Playground

1. Find ways to engage multiple senses

Multi-sensory play experiences are an essential element of inclusive indoor
playground design. Children experience the world through their senses, exploring
new experiences and positioning their bodies in space. Inclusive playgrounds
should include sensory elements that appeal to children of all ability levels.
Allowing children to develop their motor skills and problem-solving abilities while
playing in their own way is a great way to encourage learning.



2. Include different levels of challenge

All playgrounds should provide a place where children of different ages and
abilities can have fun together. Inclusive playgrounds need to cater for a range of
physical and cognitive needs. Play should always be engaging and exciting,
although children may have different preferences about how much they want to
challenge themselves. An inclusive playground makes it easy and fun for children
to play at their own pace.



Inclusive playgrounds should offer multiple challenge levels for children with
different abilities and preferences. Every child has their own abilities and desires
for what kind of play equipment they prefer. Some children are more physically
active than others, while others prefer simpler play equipment. Adding inclusive
indoor playground elements to a variety of difficulties ensures that every visitor to
your location can play in the way they like and at the level they prefer.



When creating an inclusive indoor playground with different challenge levels,
group similar equipment together with varying levels of challenge. This will allow
children to choose how they play based on their ability level and preferences while
also interacting with others.

3. Set aside a calm area

Creating calm, comfortable spaces in your inclusive indoor playground is essential
to providing a place for these children to recharge.



If a child is experiencing sensory overload, retreating to a tunnel or secluded tube
can help them feel safe and comfortable. Enclosed spaces like a beehive or even
underneath a play structure with multiple nooks and crannies can be helpful, as
long as they remain within sight of parents and caregivers. Provide some quiet
spaces where children can rest to recharge or self-regulate before heading out to
play.

4. Create space for social participation

Playgrounds are environments full of social opportunities. Providing spaces for
children to play and communicate allows them to learn social cues, make friends,
and handle conflict. Children at different stages of development may find some
social skills difficult, but having the opportunity to build these skills in a safe place
through play can encourage growth.



Designing an inclusive indoor playground requires careful consideration of the
playground’s design, layout, and elements. Inclusive playgrounds often require
creative solutions to bring children together and meet their play needs. Providing
opportunities for active play for children is our passion, and we are leaders in
finding new ways to do it.