Playground design - from exclusion to inclusion
Exclusion
Special play areas or elements are designed in such a way that children, young people and adults with certain disabilities have difficulties or are unable to use them. This leads to them feeling excluded and unable to participate fully in the playground.
Separation
Separate areas or equipment are created for children, young people and adults with different abilities, which can lead to a physical separation between age groups and play areas.
Integration
Children, young people and adults with different abilities have the opportunity to play together, but possibly with some adaptations or special areas for certain groups. This integration promotes togetherness, but can still lead to restrictions, especially if there are no barrier-free access points.
Inclusion
In an inclusive playground, all children, young people and adults, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to play together and participate fully in the playground. This means that the entire design is geared towards providing barrier-free access and a variety of play equipment and activities that are suitable for all ages and encourage and challenge inclusion for all.