About
A great deal of energy has been expended in the last 15 years to improve playground accessibility by adding ramp access to some toys. But the removal of physical barriers (accessibility) doesn't always mean the removal of social barriers (inclusion). Because play is a social, as well as a cognitive and physical experience, every part of the play area may not be accessible to all users, but the social experience must be accessible to everyone. The ideal playground environment enables all children to use their strengths to gain social
acceptance and involvement by being "more-able." The Center for Persons with Disabilities at USU is responding to these issues through Beyond Access, a project of national significance funded by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities.

Beyond Access:

Provides technical assistance and information to help playground designers increase their understanding of the needs of children with disabilities, as well as their knowledge and skills to create better playgrounds for children with disabilities;

educates communities about the diverse play needs to children with disabilities, and provides the knowledge to meet those needs; and empowers parents and advocates to take an active role in ensuring that community playgrounds and designed to meet the needs of ALL children.

If you're interested in learning more contact Beyond Access.

Project Director:

Keith Christensen
Center for Persons with Disabilities
Utah State University
6800 Old Main Hill
Logan, UT 84322-6800

Phone (435) 797-1981
Fax (435) 797-7219