It’s finally cool enough to enjoy some outside time with the family! But where should you go? If your kids are anything like ours, playgrounds are always a winner. A playground is a great place to get exercise, work on social skills, and explore freely. Traditional playgrounds, however, may not be that well-suited for a child with special needs. The good news is that it is getting much easier to find adaptive playgrounds all around DFW!
Why are there more adaptive playgrounds than before?
In 2010, Congress created addendum to the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA. It states that all playgrounds built or renovated after 2012 must include materials, equipment, and designs that allow for children with disabilities the same access as their peers. That means more ramps, therapeutic swings, smoother surfaces, wheelchair access, and sensory friendly areas.
We are now 10 years removed from that ADA addendum. Many playgrounds in our area have been updated or built with these rules in mind.
Adaptive Playgrounds We Love
Cottonwood Park – Richardson
This playground is fantastic for a few reasons. The first is that its location is wonderful! Easy access from Dallas, Richardson, Plano, and Addison means that a ton of people can enjoy it. It also has four different kinds of swings, roller slides (which I had never seen at an outdoor playground before!), and a sensory garden. It also has separate play areas for 2-5 and 5-12 year olds. Both are fenced so keeping an eye on your kiddo is super easy!
Casey’s Clubhouse – Dove Park – Grapevine
Located just 15 minutes from Irving, Casey’s Clubhouse is a truly unique playground that is bright, colorful, and full of animal statues to climb and interact with. There is a seated zipline, tons of climbing structures, and super fun slides for all ages! Casey’s Clubhouse also has a pool and splash area for hotter days.
The Hideout – Spirit Park – Allen
The Hideout sits on a nature trail where you and the family can take a walk when you need a break from climbing and sliding. The playground itself is wonderful for any child who likes to explore on their own, find hiding places, and climb. While not quite as accessible as some of the other parks on this list, The Hideout stands out for the natural feeling it provides.
Eureka 2 – South Lakes Park – Denton
This playground is a childhood dream come true! Who wouldn’t want to play in a castle?! Throw in a rock wall, adaptive swings, an accessible merry-go-round, and a zipline, and you have an incredible afternoon waiting to happen.
Fort Wildflower – Heritage Park – Flower Mound
Fort Wildflower is an incredible playground that offers plenty of spaces for pretend play as well as ample space to run around. The park is smartly designed with a 360 degree fence to give you peace of mind that your child is safe and secure. With areas for younger and older children alike, this playground is going to be a hit!
These parks aren’t playing around!
It is so important to let kids be kids. These playgrounds are a wonderful way to ensure your child is having fun in a safe environment while also giving them an opportunity to expand some of their interpersonal skills. Check them out and let us know what you think!