Celebrating Kensington’s New Accessible Playground: A Game-Changer for Inclusive Play

As an adult and accessibility consultant, I’ve spent years advocating for inclusivity, but Kensington Elementary is where my journey began. I still remember recess there—full of energy and excitement for most kids, but for me, it was different. The old playground was basic, with a few swings and climbing structures, but it wasn’t built for someone like me, a wheelchair user.

While my friends laughed and played, I sat on the sidelines, wishing I could join. The equipment was inaccessible, a reminder of the barriers that separated me from everyone else. That frustration of being left out fueled my passion for accessibility, and now, I’m thrilled to see how much has changed.

Kensington’s New Playground: A Dream Realized

Today, Kensington has a playground that truly includes everyone. It’s a space where children of all abilities can play together.

Here’s what makes it special:

Inclusive Design: Pathways connect the entire playground, allowing all children, including wheelchair users, to navigate easily.

The Burke 360 Loop™: This transfer-friendly climber lets kids of all abilities climb and slide together.

The Inclusive Orbit™: A spinning structure that’s accessible for wheelchair users, allowing everyone to join in the fun.

The Serenity Spot™: A sensory area for children who need a calming space to take a break while still feeling included.

The Roller Table: This fun, sensory play piece features rotating bars that kids can glide across, offering tactile stimulation. It’s accessible to all children, including those with mobility needs or cochlear implants, providing a safe, static-free environment for everyone to enjoy.

What This Means for Today’s Kids

The new playground is more than just equipment—it’s about inclusion. Kids of all abilities now have the chance to laugh, play, and grow together. For me, it’s deeply personal. No child at Kensington will have to feel like I did—left out and on the sidelines.

This playground is a symbol of how far we’ve come. It’s a space where every child belongs and gets to be part of the fun, and that’s something worth celebrating.

A Well-Deserved Congratulations

A huge congratulations is in order for the Kensington School, Monica Marchand and the Parents Association, and the entire community for making this dream a reality. Their dedication and commitment to creating an inclusive environment show just how much they care about all children. This playground isn’t just about play—it’s about ensuring every child feels welcome, valued, and able to participate. It’s an achievement that will benefit generations to come, and they should be incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished.