As part of our commitment to helping kids of all abilities access sport and play, we are working with municipalities across the country to build inclusive play spaces. To date we have built 24 Jumpstart Inclusive Playgrounds and supported the development of an additional 19 inclusive play spaces across the county.
Jumpstart Inclusive Playgrounds have been designed from the ground-up to be universally accessible, ensuring all kids can take part in the magic of play. From double-wide ramps to static-free slides, these incredible play spaces are thoughtfully designed to ensure there is something there for everyone.
We are committed to building at least one Jumpstart Inclusive Playground in every province and territory. Check out the inclusive play space map at the bottom of this page to find one near you.
Playground Features
Expand the drop-down menus below to learn more about a few of the features that make these playgrounds so special.
All Jumpstart Playgrounds are designed with barrier-free access from pathway to surfacing and surfacing to the play structure. The smooth, non-slip surface provides a safe play space that is easy to move around whether you are walking or wheeling. The ramps on the playground structure are twice as wide as those on a traditional playground, ensuring those using mobility devices can move past each other and roll side-by-side. There is enough room to change direction so all the play elements are easily accessible.
Slides are a staple in most playgrounds, however, this slide is quite special! It is made up of individual rollers that are wide enough for kids to slide alongside their friends, encouraging cooperation and development of social skills. The slide eliminates static electricity so kids with cochlear implants can safely slide without fear of static electricity discharging into their implant - a concern on common plastic slides. The transfer bench at the bottom of the slide allows children to slide with their peers and easily transfer themselves from the slide to a mobility device.
The We-Go-Round is a merry-go-round where everyone can spin! The seamless transition between the surfacing and equipment provides kids using mobility devices barrier-free access to the fun. The We-Go-Round can be spun from the outside or inside using the centre post, ensuring everyone can contribute to the spinning. The design encourages social play so that kids can cooperate as riders and pushers to create an experience that is fun and inclusive of everyone.
The Sway Fun Glider is one of many thoughtfully designed elements of these playgrounds that make them accessible to all. Focused on motion play, it provides a social gathering point where children can play cooperatively and rest if they need to. There are no barriers to accessing the equipment, ensuring those using mobility devices can join in on the fun. Children can work together to make the Sway Fun move, and the table placement enables those using mobility devices to actively participate.
Jumpstart Inclusive Multi Sport Courts
Building upon our experience with our playgrounds, we have worked with industry leaders to develop accessible play spaces, providing ample opportunity for kids of all abilities to participate in both organized sport and casual play.
Each Multi Sport Court is unique, designed to meet the needs of the community it serves. You can use the inclusive play space map at the bottom of the page to find a Jumpstart Inclusive Multi Sport Court near you!
Multi Sport Court Features
Expand the drop-down menus below to learn more about a few of the features that make these play spaces so special.
Jumpstart Inclusive Multi Sport Courts feature a pour-in-place cushioned surfacing, ensuring barrier-free access to the space and a comfortable surface to play on. Gate entrances are twice as wide as standard courts and are designed to enable easy access for those with limited hand/grip function.
All seating areas are easily accessible for those using mobility devices and many feature shading structures to provide a comfortable place to rest.
The courts and casual play areas feature high-contrast colours with white lines which support those with limited vision. Professional LED overhead court lights provide ample lighting for increased visibility.
The courts are marked for a variety of sports and feature adjustable equipment, enabling users to play a variety of sports and Para Sports. Supported sports include:
Basketball
Pickleball
Sitting Volleyball
Tennis
Volleyball
Wheelchair Basketball
Wheelchair Tennis
and more!
Inclusive Baseball Fields
Any player can get in the game on these inclusive baseball fields. It’s 100,000 square feet of play space features a rubberized surfacing and high-contrast colours. The dugouts have the same rubber surfacing and are deeper than standard to allow for easy access for those using mobility devices. Further enhancing the field’s accessibility, seating areas and restrooms are accessible, pathways are clear and even, and there are rest and quiet areas for those who need to take a break from the action.
There are currently two Inclusive Baseball Fields, one in Whitby, ON and the other in Windsor, ON.
Para Hockey Ice Rinks
Para Hockey Ice Rinks are designed to ensure ease of access and a seamless experience for players of all abilities. By placing the ice, bench, and change areas at the same grade, individuals using mobility devices are able to move through the facility with ease. Benches and the penalty box are deeper than standard and surfaced with ice to accommodate sledge access, and by replacing the traditional rink boards with plexi-glass, players are able to engage with their peers on the ice without any barriers. The space can accommodate additional equipment and lines to allow for other uses outside of the winter months.
There is currently one Para Hockey Ice Rink, located in Winnipeg, MB.
Inclusive Play Space Map
Use the map below to find an inclusive play space near you!
