Water brings meaning and sensory fascination to all of us, whether it’s in the sound of a gentle rain, the taste of an icy drink or the feel of running water through our fingers. Everyone interacts with water in their own way, making splash play one of the most inherently inclusive forms of outdoor recreation. A well-designed splash pad offers a “just-right fit” for every visitor, regardless of age or ability.
When Aquatix designs a splash pad, it’s for everyone: people with physical disabilities, developmental or intellectual differences such as autism or Down syndrome, visitors who are blind/low vision and deaf/hard of hearing, as well as family members of all ages, friends, and caregivers. The need for play does not discriminate, and neither should the splash pad.
What is Inclusive Splash Play?
All kids are born with the desire and need to experience play. A well-designed inclusive splash play environment is one that welcomes children and adults of all abilities, creating a space where everyone can interact and engage in a way that’s appropriate for their age, needs and abilities.
Landscape Structures has been a leader in inclusion since the beginning, paving the way by designing the first inclusive playgrounds and committing ourselves to ongoing learning. We rely on our inclusive play specialists and our network of inclusion allies to provide the education and lived experience necessary to create truly inclusive play and splash play environments.
To explore our philosophy and practice of inclusive play further, visit us here.
Inclusive Spray Park Design
By thoughtfully combining aqua play features so that there’s something for everyone, a splash play environment can meet each child where they are—offering both high-energy excitement and calming, restorative moments. Accessible layouts, clear sightlines and barrier-free access are all part of inclusivity.
Inclusive Splash Play Resources
We have numerous news articles on inclusive splash play written with the expertise of our inclusive play specialists in the News section of this site. And for a deep-dive into inclusive splash play for professionals, we offer a 200-level continuing education session on inclusive spray play. Finally, take a look at our featured splash pad projects for a look at how we’ve put inclusive splash play into practice.
Designing by Zones
An important element of inclusivity on the splash pad is the use of aqua play zones. By designing each park with a Gentle, Universal and Dynamic zone, we are able to account for the variation in needs of splash pad visitors and provide a “just right” experience for everyone. Zones ensure that differences in sensory needs, age, height and comfort level of all community members are met.
Learn More About Aqua Play Zones
Spray Park Design for the Senses
Sensory considerations are a key component of any inclusive design, and splash play is a naturally multisensory experience; it engages sight, sound, touch, and body awareness in ways few other play environments can. By engaging the senses, aqua play environments support brain development and help children process and respond to the world around them.
Tactile
Visual
Auditory
Each of our aqua play products offers an array of sensory benefits. Visit any product and scroll to the “Developmental Benefits” section to learn more. And to discover how play impacts the senses, read our Senses at Play Handout.
If you have questions about inclusive splash play or if you’re ready to start designing, contact us!
