Less than ten years ago, there were no universally designed playgrounds available for children. This concept of universal design started to become more common in 2012 after the federal government made access to play areas a civil right under the Americans with Disabilities Act. This addition to the ADA mainly focuses on accessibility, such as adding ramp structures within parks and recreational facilities. Nevertheless, it does not change the fact that children with disabilities are still restricted from having fun and interacting with other children. Since the state will not fully fund the construction of these inclusive play environments, it is difficult for communities to raise enough money to afford the costs. It is clear that children …show more content…
Generally, children with disabilities tend to be insecure and have a low self-esteem because of their limitations, therefore excessive bullying could lead to serious effects, such as anxiety and depression. According to Marshall et al., “Only 10 studies have been conducted in the United States on bullying and developmental disabilities. All studies found that children with disabilities were two to three times more likely to be victims of bullying than their nondisabled peers” (22). Not only does this information display how marginalized disabled children are in the United States, it also demonstrates the lack of resources available to prevent these instances from recurring. Inclusive playgrounds provide a solution to this behavior. Since many disabled children do not have access to play environments, it is difficult for them to interact with other children. This lack of interaction causes non-disabled children to judge those with disabilities because they are unfamiliar with the child’s limitations and do not understand that everyone is born different. Since disabled children would be more present within these play areas, non-disabled children would become more accepting and understanding of their limitations. Also, children would be more willing to adjust the rules of a game or an activity, so that the disabled child could play and feel included in the fun. By creating a shared …show more content…
For example, a person can develop a disability at any point in their life. People tend to forget that accidents can occur at any time. If a parent is disabled, it is difficult for them to navigate around a normal playground---sometimes, it is impossible; therefore, this lack of accessibility restricts them from engaging in activities with their children. Also, grandparents with assistive gear such as walkers, canes, and mobility scooters are restrained from interacting with their grandchildren at these facilities. Universally-designed playgrounds would allow parents and grandparents who have limitations to participate in play activities with their families rather than remain in one spot and watch from a