Kelly Arbour-Nicitopoulos, an associate professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, was quoted in this article by Carly Weeks in the Globe and Mail about how to design the perfect city playground. Arbour-Nicitopoulos, an expert on physical activity and disability, emphasized the importance of ensuring playgrounds are accessible to all children.
Kelly Arbour-Nicitopoulos, associate professor at the University of Toronto’s faculty of kinesiology and physical education, said Canada is far behind the U.S. and Europe in building play areas for everyone. For instance, playgrounds that sit on sand or wood chips are a no-go zone for people with mobility issues.
“Just because there’s an accessible swing doesn’t mean it’s an inclusive play space,” she said.
Similarly, many existing playgrounds can be difficult to navigate for neurodivergent kids or those with sensory issues. Improvements can include small, quiet spaces for kids to take a break, or equipment that makes noise to engage a child’s senses.
“That can really create an enriching play experience,” she said ...