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Inclusive Playground Equipment - Slides

Inclusive Playground Equipment - Slides

22 Oct 2025

Play Expertise

Inclusive Slide Design: The Thrill of the Descent

Slides offer exhilaration, speed, and mild risk-taking. Making slides accessible isn't just about adding ramps - it's about ensuring that the excitement of sliding is available to everyone.

 

Multiple Access Routes

Truly inclusive playground design offers multiple access routes: transfer platforms, graduated steps, ramps with appropriate gradients, and climbing elements.

The Slide Experience

  • Wide Slides: Accommodate wheelchair users or allow caregivers to slide with children who need support.
  • Enclosed Slides: Provide security for children who might feel anxious on open slides.
  • Varied Heights: Offer slides at multiple heights so children can choose their comfort level.

Chester Zoo Islands Play Area: Inclusive Design

We created Chester Zoo's Islands play area with a large climbing structure designed to accommodate many children simultaneously across a wide age range, allowing each child to find their ideal level of challenge. The Cradle Nest swing provides inclusive play for all ages, from toddlers to teenagers, offering varying experiences from gentle swinging to high-energy thrilling rides.

Key Principles

Don’t segregate accessible slide access. Avoid designs that make disabiity conspicuous. Create choice based on preference, not just ability.

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