Understanding the experiences of parents of disabled and non-disabled children at playgrounds designed for disability inclusion

Disabled children and their families are often excluded from community play opportunities, including playgrounds. One potential solution is inclusive playgrounds. This study explores the experiences of parents of disabled and non-disabled children at playgrounds inspired by Principles of Universal Design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 parents (16 parents of disabled children) located across four Canadian cities with newly built inclusively designed playgrounds. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were identified, providing opportunities for critical understandings of ableism in community play spaces and the impact on children and their families: (i) inclusive playgrounds as a platform for disability advocacy; (ii) opportunities for social and emotional development; and (iii) inclusive play may influence family dynamics. Findings highlight the value of universal design, but indicate that physical environments alone do not ensure social inclusion, as social barriers can continue to exist even in spaces purposefully designed for disability inclusion. Points of interestDisabled children are often excluded from playing at playgrounds due to design limitations, but one solution may include building playgrounds informed by the Principles of Universal Design.Playgrounds designed for disability inclusion provide many benefits, such as opportunities to champion disability advocacy, support disabled children in developing critical social skills, and bringing play into the lives of families with disabilities.Playgrounds designed for disability inclusion are a starting point to reducing physical barriers for disabled people but additional work and resources are needed to achieve full social inclusivity.Findings can help guide designs of future playgrounds and other community spaces to improve inclusivity of people of all abilities.