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After being in the works for about three years, Touchwood Park, Neepawa’s local organisation supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, has now opened its accessible playground. Holly Pankratz, assistant executive director of Touchwood Park, says the playground is open to the public, not just Touchwood Park clients, and is already being used by people of all ages.

Rrain Prior – Local Journalism Initiative

The inclusive play structures are located on poured rubber matting which allows use by persons in wheelchairs and with other mobility difficulties, and have several features to make them more accessible. The main play structure has a wheelchair ramp and transfer seat at the apex, where there is a double slide to allow for assisted use. There is also a wheelchair bouncer, wheelchair swing, and other swings with belts and harnesses for safe use by everyone.

One of the main ideas behind the design, says Pankratz, is to allow for parallel play, meaning that people in wheelchairs or needing other supportive play structures can play alongside people who don’t necessarily require those supports. 

Also featured is a visual communication board with a grid of basic wants and needs for anyone who is non-verbal. One side of the board is in English and the other is in Tagalog, reflecting the language diversity of the community.

Touchwood Park has raised more than half of the $290,000 price tag already, and Pankratz thanks the community for their tremendous support as well as the volunteers who donated hundreds of hours to allow the playground to open on time and on budget.

The accessible playground is located at the north end of town next to Touchwood Park’s day program building, and is open to everyone.