ncart_blog_howanaccessibleplayground Playgrounds can provide more than just a break from class. They offer the chance to build friendships, develop teamwork, and create joyful memories. At NCART, we believe that every child, no matter their physical restrictions, should have the chance to enjoy the benefits every recess brings. Find out how accessible playgrounds can benefit your community and how you can help ensure that no child gets left behind. Why do we need accessible playgrounds? For children affected by spinal and nerve diseases, playgrounds provide potential problems. Loose rocks covering the ground makes it impossible to maneuver crutches and wheelchairs. Swings do not provide additional back support and can cause potential danger from falling. Jungle gym equipment is narrow and steps hinder children with disabilities. Due to this, playgrounds are no longer safe and fun but provide potential risk of injury. How can an accessible playground benefit my community? For parents of children with special needs, the start of school brings additional concern. Since many schools do not have accessible playgrounds, they not only worry about injury, but about their child being left out of the group. By incorporating an accessible playground, you are procuring inclusion for all children as well as installing the belief of teamwork in your community. Ensuring that everyone feels welcome in your neighborhood can strengthen the ties of your town. How can I help build an accessible playground? Getting an accessible playground built can seem like an overwhelming endeavor. To ease this concern, start by forming a committee within your community. Make sure to include individuals that can further help your cause such as lawyers, accountants, caregivers, and construction project managers. Speak with local businesses to expand your team. Create a separate committee for fundraising and keep your community involved throughout the process. Once you have your team, start planning tactics to raise awareness of your efforts. Continue to partner with companies across the state to aid in your fundraising events. Doing so will help spread out your workload and ensure maximum exposure. For more information on starting an accessible playground visit www.unlimitedplay.org to find out the steps you can take to help make your community stronger. Accessible playgrounds are just one way to ensure that children with special needs are included in their community. At NCART, our members help make these ideas possible. Learn more on how your business can become a member today and the benefits our team can provide.