The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation is launching a conversation with the public to make playgrounds more inclusive into the future. Currently Vancouver has more than 150 playgrounds, many of which were built before today’s understanding of inclusive play. Park Board staff are seeking input via a citywide survey  to help design guidelines to make sure future playgrounds work well for all children, families and caregivers.

Inclusive play means children of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds can play together. It goes beyond basic accessibility requirements. Inclusive play looks at physical access, sensory experiences, social connection, and cultural inclusion. 

The goals of this work include:  

Building inclusive, accessible playgrounds. We want playgrounds to be safe, welcoming, and easy for everyone to use. All children should be able to take part in active play and spend time with others. 

Helping people connect. We aim to make spaces where kids, caregivers, and community members can meet, talk, and spend time together. 

Offering different kinds of play. Playgrounds should offer a mix of activities with different levels of challenge. This helps children with different needs take part in ways that feel right for them. 

Going beyond basic requirements. We want playgrounds that reflect the diversity of the people who use them. This means thinking about sensory, emotional, cultural, and physical needs, along with accessibility.