Dad Reinvents Playgrounds to be Accessible for All

Summary

Cody is on a mission to revolutionize playground design, ensuring inclusivity for children of all abilities. Inspired by his daughter Harper, who faced mobility challenges, Cody developed Harper's Playground, which features innovative design principles that make outdoor spaces physically, socially, and emotionally inviting. This movement has inspired others, leading to the creation of more inclusive play areas nationwide. By changing the way playgrounds are built, Cody aims to foster a more inclusive world for everyone, ultimately making his playground concept a universal standard for play and community engagement.

Takeaways

• 😀 Playgrounds often fail to accommodate children with disabilities, limiting their access to play.
• 🌟 Cody's journey began with the birth of his daughter, Harper, who faced significant health challenges.
• 🚫 Traditional playground designs are not inclusive, often requiring children with disabilities to navigate barriers that are difficult or impossible.
• 🏗️ Harper's Playground aims to create a radically inclusive environment for all children, regardless of their abilities.
• 💡 The design principles focus on being physically, socially, and emotionally inviting to enhance the play experience.
• 🛹 The playground features elements like a spiral walkway for wheelchairs and double-wide slides for caregivers and children to enjoy together.
• 🌍 Cody's vision extends beyond playgrounds, aiming to influence the design of schools, workplaces, and communities for greater inclusivity.
• 🤝 The movement for inclusive playgrounds is gaining traction, inspiring other parents to create similar spaces across the country.
• 🎨 The design incorporates art and nature to create an emotionally inviting environment, promoting well-being and connection.
• 🔄 Ultimately, if inclusivity is achieved, there will be no need for separate inclusive playgrounds, as all spaces will be designed for everyone.

Q & A

What inspired Cody to create Harper's Playground?

Cody was inspired to create Harper's Playground after his daughter, Harper, faced challenges with traditional playgrounds. Her walker got stuck in wood chips, highlighting the lack of accessibility in most play spaces.

What are the three key principles behind the design of Harper's Playground?

The three key principles are: physical inclusivity, social inclusivity, and emotional inclusivity. These principles ensure that the playground is accessible to all children, fosters social interaction, and creates an emotionally positive experience.

How does the design of Harper's Playground support physical inclusivity?

Harper's Playground is physically inclusive by allowing all children, including those in wheelchairs, to access every part of the playground. For example, the spiral walkway allows wheelchairs to gain speed, and the slide is wide enough for a caregiver to join their child.

What role does social inclusivity play in the design of the playground?

Social inclusivity is addressed by creating communal areas, circular seating spaces, and using natural elements that encourage interaction among children and caregivers, fostering a sense of community.

Why is emotional inclusivity an important aspect of the playground's design?

Emotional inclusivity is important because it enhances the emotional experience of the playground users. The use of art, good design lines, and music aims to elevate moods and create an emotionally inviting environment.

What is the symbolic meaning behind the use of sea turtles in the design?

The sea turtle symbolizes struggle and perseverance. On land, sea turtles are slow and cumbersome, but in water, they move with grace and speed. This represents the idea that, with the right environment, everyone can 'fly' regardless of their challenges.

How did Cody's vision for Harper's Playground evolve over time?

Initially, Cody's goal was to create a playground for his daughter Harper. However, as he worked on the design, he realized that by designing for children like Harper, he was creating a playground that could benefit all children, regardless of ability.

What impact has Harper's Playground had on other communities?

Harper's Playground has inspired other communities to build inclusive playgrounds. In Iowa, for example, a group of parents built a similar playground after being inspired by Cody's work. Cody also hosts workshops to teach others how to create their own inclusive spaces.

What is the broader goal of the Harper's Playground movement?

The broader goal of Harper's Playground is to create a ripple effect that extends beyond playgrounds, influencing the design of schools, workplaces, and public spaces. It aims to change how people with disabilities are treated and viewed in society.

How does Cody view the future of Harper's Playground?

Cody envisions a future where Harper's Playground is no longer needed because all playgrounds and public spaces will be universally inclusive. His ultimate goal is for everyone to feel invited to play, which would render Harper's Playground unnecessary.