Presented by Collaboration Station, Rocco’s Voice for Autism, and Speak Up & Swing High

As organizations that work closely with individuals with special needs and disabilities, we witness firsthand the barriers that children and families continue to face when trying to access playgrounds and community spaces. Far too many children are excluded from meaningful play experiences simply because parks and playgrounds are not designed with all abilities in mind.

Every child deserves the opportunity to play, socialize, communicate, explore, and belong in spaces that are safe, accessible, and inclusive. Across our communities, playgrounds are often labeled “accessible” simply because a child can physically enter the space. But for thousands of children and adults with disabilities, access does not equal inclusion.

A ramp into a playground is not enough if a child cannot:
• Use the equipment
• Communicate with peers
• Regulate sensory needs
• Participate safely
• Feel included alongside other children

Because Accessibility Should Mean EVERY Child Can Play

Current ADA standards primarily focus on accessibility — getting into the park. But families deserve more than access alone. They deserve participation, dignity, independence, and belonging.

Inclusive playgrounds should incorporate equipment and design features that support a wide range of physical, sensory, communication, and cognitive needs.

This includes:
• Adaptive and wheelchair-accessible playground equipment
• Inclusive swings and sensory-friendly play areas
• Communication boards 
• Sensory spaces
• Ground-level interactive play opportunities
• Accessible pathways throughout the park

Every child deserves the right to:
• Play without barriers
• Build friendships
• Feel seen and included
• Develop confidence and independence
• Experience the joy of childhood

Families of children with disabilities should not have to travel long distances just to find a park where their child can truly participate.

This is not a luxury. This is equality. This is inclusion

We are calling on local and state leaders to:
• Establish stronger inclusive playground standards
• Require adaptive and sensory-supportive features in public parks
• Allocate funding for inclusive recreational spaces
• Ensure future playgrounds are designed for ALL abilities — not just minimum ADA compliance

Our communities have the opportunity to become leaders in accessibility, acceptance, and inclusion — but meaningful change requires action now!

By signing this petition, you are helping us urge local and state officials to take immediate action toward creating genuine inclusive playgrounds and public spaces where every child can play, connect, grow, and belong.

Inclusion should never stop at the parking lot or the ramp!