Inclusive play spaces are transforming the landscape of public recreation, creating environments where children of all abilities can play, learn, and grow together.
Groundbreaking projects such as the inclusive playground approved for Hilton Head Island in South Carolina are the future of recreation as communities increasingly recognize the value of inclusive design.
“These playgrounds soar beyond compliance and accessibility standards and foster genuine inclusion, break down social barriers, and strengthen the fabric of communities,” says Sue Churchich, president of Churchich Recreation & Design, which is leading the design work on the Shelter Cove Community Park approved by the Hilton Head Island Town Council.
Construction is expected to begin in 2026 on the Shelter Cove Community Park project, the first North American installation in a partnership between Best Buddies® International and Miracle® Recreation.
"We are extremely proud to partner with Hilton Head Island and Best Buddies on this exciting project," said Churchich. "This playground is a testament to our commitment to creating spaces where children of all abilities can come together, interact, and form lasting friendships."
Why Inclusive Play Matters
Traditional playgrounds often fall short for children with disabilities, unintentionally excluding them from the full benefits of play.
Inclusive play spaces are thoughtfully designed to welcome everyone, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities.
Key features of inclusive playgrounds include:
- Accessible pathways and ramps: Ensuring children using wheelchairs or mobility devices can reach every part of the playground.
- Sensory-rich equipment: Providing tactile, auditory, and visual stimulation for children with sensory processing needs.
- Ground-level play elements: Allowing children who cannot climb to participate fully in the fun.
- Quiet zones: Offering spaces for children who may become overwhelmed and need a break.
- Universal design: Creating equipment and layouts that are naturally usable by all, reducing the need for special accommodation.
These features do more than meet legal requirements-they encourage children of all backgrounds and abilities to interact, fostering empathy and understanding from an early age.
Building Social Connections
At the heart of inclusive play spaces is the opportunity for meaningful social interaction.
“When children play together, they learn to communicate, cooperate, and resolve conflict,” says Churchich. “These are skills essential for lifelong success.”
Inclusive playgrounds provide a natural setting for these interactions, allowing children with and without disabilities to form friendships based on shared experiences.
Parents and caregivers also benefit from inclusive play spaces.
These environments become gathering places for families, fostering a sense of community and support. Parents of children with disabilities often face social isolation; inclusive playgrounds offer them a welcoming space to connect with others who share similar experiences, reducing feelings of loneliness and building a network of support.
"Fostering an inclusive, multidimensional community depends on our ability to connect and collaborate with each other in physical, social and cultural environments," said Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry.
Community Benefits Beyond the Playground
The positive effects of inclusive play spaces ripple throughout the community. These playgrounds are visible symbols of a community’s commitment to diversity and belonging.
Community-wide impacts include:
- Increased civic pride and engagement.
- Inspiration for local businesses and organizations to adopt inclusive practices.
- Greater participation in community events and volunteer initiatives.
When people see inclusion in action, it motivates broader positive change.
“To be the first Best Buddies + Miracle Recreation inclusive playground in the country just adds to our excitement about moving this community resource forward," said Marc Orlando, Hilton Head Island Town Manager.
Churchich Recreation’s Commitment to Inclusion
Churchich Recreation has long been a champion of inclusive play, partnering with organizations and municipalities to design and build playgrounds that welcome all children.
This commitment is highlighted by the Shelter Cove Community Park and partnership with Best Buddies, a global nonprofit dedicated to fostering one-to-one friendships and leadership opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Churchich and Best Buddies are creating a space that reflects the values of both organizations: friendship, acceptance, and community.
“By partnering with Best Buddies, we are creating a space where everyone can play together, learn from each other, and build lasting relationships,” says Churchich. “This playground will be a reflection of our belief that every child deserves the chance to play.”
The Ripple Effect: Inspiring Change
When communities experience the benefits of inclusive play firsthand, they become advocates for accessibility everywhere. These playgrounds:
- Educate the public about the value of accessibility and inclusion.
- Challenge stereotypes and reduce stigma.
- Encourage schools, parks, and public spaces to adopt universal design principles.
The result is a more welcoming, empathetic, and unified society.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Inclusive Play
As awareness grows, more communities are seeking to create playgrounds that welcome everyone.
“Our industry has made great progress in advancing inclusion over the last 10-15 years, but much more can be done," said Todd Brinker, senior vice president, commercial growth, for outdoor play at PlayPower®, Miracle Recreation’s parent company. "Best Buddies thought leadership and expertise across the IDD community gives us the unique opportunity to offer a wide range of high-quality inclusive play spaces to communities across North America. Our goal is that by 2027, the majority of all new Miracle playgrounds installed will be Best Buddies inclusive playgrounds."
This movement is supported by:
- Evolving playground design standards.
- Increased funding for inclusive projects.
- Recognition of the long-term social and emotional benefits.
Churchich Recreation continues to lead by example, forging partnerships and designing spaces that bring people together -- ensuring that the next generation of playgrounds is both accessible and truly inclusive.
Designing and Building Inclusive Spaces that Bring Communities Together
Inclusive play spaces are more than just a playground -- they are catalysts for social transformation.
By breaking down barriers and fostering connections among children and families, these spaces strengthen communities and promote a culture of acceptance and belonging.
Churchich Recreation’s partnership with Best Buddies and the creation of Hilton Head’s first inclusive playground at Shelter Cove Community Park exemplify the transformative power of inclusive play.
As more communities embrace inclusion, the social impact will continue to grow -- ensuring every child can play, learn, and thrive, together.
Contact Churchich Recreation today to get started on a high-quality, inclusive recreational space that can bring your community together.