Designing All-Inclusive Outdoor Environments for Children with Special Needs By Tara Vincenta
Many special needs children, including those with autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, developmental delay, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, sensory disorders, and vision and auditory deficiencies share a broad range of common challenges. These may include motor
and
neuromuscular
challenges;
cognitive
sensory
and
communication issues; and visual and auditory impairment. Design professionals, are in a unique position to evolve outdoor environments
for
the
special
needs
community
beyond
basic
accessibility issues and address the less apparent challenges faced by these kids, their families and caregivers. With consideration, and thoughtful,
creative
design,
the
issues
of
this
ever
growing
population of children can be accommodated; where children of all abilities can come together to have fun in safe and accepting outdoor environments. Through research, reference materials, personal interviews and observations, we have developed the following guidelines for your consideration in the design of outdoor spaces for children with special needs.
Design for All Institute of India, Special Issue, December 2015, Vol. 10, No. 13
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