Kingston's inclusive play project is now open, creating a space where children of all abilities can play side by side, after three years of planning and more than $1.5 million raised. For context, this project aims to provide an environment that is accessible and enjoyable for all children, regardless of their abilities.
Inclusive Playground Features
The new playground at Shannon Park was made possible through donations from private individuals and foundations, support from Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, and land and funding from the City of Kingston. The goal was simple — to create a space where every child can feel included, as stated by Kingston city Coun. Brandon Tozzo, who noted that "it was something that everybody got on board with and it was great to see just how this project built slowly over time and just became a movement."
For parents like Krystal Good, whose five-year-old daughter is non-verbal and has level three autism, the park's features are a welcome change. The fenced-in play area, in particular, makes a big difference for their family, as Good's daughter has a tendency to run off during playtime. The park also includes a communication board to help non-verbal children express what they need, as well as rubber safety surfacing to cushion falls and keep children safe.
Impact on Families
Families like the Good's are already benefiting from the new playground, with features like the communication board allowing non-verbal children to express their needs. As Good noted, "she was able to go over to that board and say go and we knew that she wanted to leave." The park's official grand opening is set for the middle of September, but for families like the Good's, the space is already making a difference.
The project's success is a testament to the community's support and dedication to creating inclusive spaces. With the park now open, families can look forward to a safe and enjoyable environment for their children to play and socialize. As the park's grand opening approaches, readers can expect to see more updates on the project's progress and its impact on the community.
What's Next
The official grand opening of the inclusive playground is scheduled for the middle of September. Readers can watch for updates on the project's progress and its impact on the community in the coming weeks. In the meantime, families can visit the park and experience the benefits of an inclusive play environment for themselves.
