the sensory play and interactive space

a blueprint for sensory-inclusive playground design

Kathryn L. Williams, Karen Edwards, Leslie Riley, Palmyra Romeo, Megan Venable, Ailse O’Neill

Occupational therapists’ role in direct intervention with clients is well recognized, however our unique knowledge of the intersection between person, context, and participation allows us to have a valuable role in environmental design as well. The American Occupational Therapy Association’s official document on Complex Environmental Modifications states that clinicians “can provide solutions to challenges affecting occupational performance and participation in daily life activities of all types” by being consultants and working with community planners. Because occupational therapists have expertise in recognizing sensory needs and preferences of individuals, we can advocate for the design of play spaces that are inclusive of a range of sensory differences. For example, research shows that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder, or ADHD may have sensory profiles that differ from their siblings and peers. Maximizing the ability of all children and families to enjoy the space together will best support the development of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social skills, and strengthen the connections between all users.  

We had the opportunity to develop a blueprint for an outdoor community space that would foster inclusive play for children and families. We are open to consulting on any project that is interested in using the concepts developed in this model.

In many current outdoor play spaces, there may be a mismatch between the ways a child would like to play and what is available in the space. In order to develop the blueprint of our model, we collected and synthesized information across a variety of sources: existing academic research, universal design principles/current sensory-related strategies being used by community spaces such as parks and museums, and feedback from parents and designers.

1.      Existing clinical and research knowledge
As occupational therapists, we recognize that seeking out or avoiding various sensory experiences, such as those offered by visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory/gustatory, or vestibular modalities, may signal a need or preference on the part of the child. Additionally, research shows that individuals can also show more general patterns of under- or over-responsiveness to sensory stimulation, and/or purposefully seek out more intense stimulation. We aim to address these individual sensory preferences in our model.

2. Universal design principles/Existing sensory-related strategies of community spaces
In addition, universal design principles encourage the application of ‘perceptible information’ such as maps and visual aids. Site-specific visual aids can be developed that encourage interactive engagement and draw attention to learning opportunities throughout the space. Guides created by TEACCH, a nationally recognized leader in life participation for people with ASD, are excellent examples of perceptible information in practice. Integrating site specific visual aids structures the interactive experience and also empowers caregivers by allowing them to prepare for their visit and fully benefit from all the space has to offer.

3. Feedback from parents and playground designers
A survey to parents of children with different sensory needs indicated that primary sensory-related concerns included providing places for ample opportunities for movement and tactile exploration and options for a space to accommodate noise sensitivity. Most-used aspects of current play spaces were climbing structures, swings, and water features. Importantly, community spaces such as parks, museums, and playgrounds were only frequented if the space was not overly noisy or crowded. Consultation with a playground designer provided useful examples of ways to incorporate areas of rest and refuge throughout an outdoor space. Our model includes a variety of interactive, dynamic, and engaging zones and activities to match any individual’s preferred level of stimulation. Regions for interactive play, exploration, rest, and relaxation are all included.

Occupational therapists address sensory needs and preferences using a core knowledge of how to structure contextual opportunities for engagement based on the client’s functioning.  According to the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, one way to do so is to address the qualities of the physical environment that can enhance physical and social participation. Therefore, occupational therapists can play a unique role in thoughtful and informed design of community areas such as play spaces to allow both children and adults the opportunity to explore, rest, and interact together. Our proposed model considers inclusion and invites participation by scaffolding the type and intensity of sensory experiences offered, and provides caregivers with helpful information prior to and during their visit to ensure a successful outing. Our ultimate aim is to embrace the spectrum of different sensory needs and preferences to create a space that can ‘feel’ right for all individuals, and can afford as many opportunities for engagement between families and peers as possible.