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In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, all facilities and programs are designed to ensure that patrons of all abilities are able to fully participate in activities at Pinecrest Gardens. An extensive, independent accessibility study was conducted in August 2010 which identified several areas that did not comply with ADA standards. Since that time, we have managed to correct every single issue and we are thrilled to report we are not only 100 percent ADA code compliant but we offer an all-inclusive facility where everyone can participate and enjoy our facilities equally, regardless of the cognitive or physical abilities.
A significant initiative was begun in 2012 to develop sensitive programming to attract families with children on the Autism Spectrum. Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills, along with some forms of repetitive behaviors. All too often, the disorder causes isolation, stress, and a sense of always “walking on pins and needles” tragically for the child, as well as for siblings, parents and extended family members.
It was there and then we made the commitment to broaden our programing initiatives, make at least one performance in every one of our children theater performances sensory friendly, alter the Banyan Bowl stage to accommodate performers with limited mobility, host festivals that provide creative opportunities to every child regardless of their abilities and more. However, programing in and of itself was not the only answer. We needed to do more, to go further. Today, we are proud to say we are an inclusive facility. This claim is best illustrated in our new playground. The following are just some of the features that put every child on an equal ground for participation:
Anole lizard Ramp and Play Structure:
The Anole lizard inspired play structure has multiple inclusive and universally accessible features. First, in addition to being a play structure, it serves as an accessible route between the two levels of the upper garden, which are separated by a 5-foot change in elevation. The lizard structure is accessible to children and adults using wheelchairs or other assistive mobility devices throughout and direct access to each interior play experience. The lizard features a variety of accessible and inclusive play elements accommodating children with a variety of abilities. It offers cozy spaces as well that may be attractive to children with Autism. All play experiences are designed to be reachable from a standing or seated position and provide side-by-side play space for inclusive fun.
Hillside Roller Slide:
The hillside roller slide is accessible to children with varying abilities. Kids can climb/crawl/scramble up the hillside directly to the slide entry, or they can take the accessible route up the inside of the lizard to the top. The roller slide has a unique safe exit seat at the bottom providing a waiting space for children who need to have their wheelchair or assistive mobility device brought to them at the bottom of the slide. The roller-slide also has a textured surface and provides a fun vestibular and tactile experience that could appeal particularly to children with Autism. The slide is also wide enough for side-by-side inclusive fun and support for those who may want/need it.
Spider Spinner:
This playground spinner has a spider inspired form. It is completely wheelchair accessible, with flush access entry at ground level. The spinner is inclusive and accessible, accommodating several children at a time. The spinner can be turned by kids inside on the deck or pushed by those on the outside. Spinning motions often appeal to children who have Autism.
Frog Play Structure:
This is a structure designed for use by 2 to 5-year-olds. It features activities that are inclusive and accessible to children with a variety of abilities and interests. The interior space is accessible for kids using wheelchairs or other assistive mobility devices. All play experiences are directly reachable from seating or standing positions and have clear side-by-side companion space to encourage inclusive play. The frog structure also has some cozy spaces that might appeal particularly to children with Autism. The balance stepping lily pads have accessible clear space so kids on the balance pads can interact with friends on the ground encouraging inclusive interaction.
Swinging:
There are a variety of swing options to choose from. Some are traditional and several with more inclusive accessible design, such as the multi-child nest disc and a face-to-face partner swing that is not only inclusive but accessible in its seating design.
Musical Experiences:
The playground features several musical elements, scattered throughout, that are accessible and appealing to all children. Instruments are located on accessible surface, within reach of children seated or standing and provide side-by-side clear space to encourage inclusive play.
Accessible Safety Surfacing.
The playground surface is a unitary rubber accessible safety surface throughout and directly connects the entry and exit points of all play components. This surface also is easy to clean and sanitize for everyone’s health and safety.
The playground area also features:
An all-inclusive mini-zoo where children will be able to enjoy an animal encounter experience.
New, totally accessible restrooms.
A new learning and sensory garden.
Lush new landscaping.
New all-inclusive picnic areas.
And finally, the Inspiration Center:
In Pursuit of Inspiration—Building Pinecrest Gardens’ first stand-alone classroom and rehearsal hall.
The crown jewel of our upper garden project is our very special Inspiration Center opening in August. Pinecrest Gardens has never had a dedicated classroom. Not only will this provide a state-of-the-art space for children of all abilities to learn, laugh and play…it will also serve to house permanent exhibits and information about our living collections of flora and fauna.
Please visit Friends of Pinecrest Gardens at friendsofpinecrestgardens.org to learn more about this facility and information on the naming rights for many of these features now open to the public.
