Did you know that April is World Landscape Architecture Month? This month, we acknowledge and celebrate the dedicated professionals who design and plan outdoor spaces — including those who play vital roles in designing playspaces for children.

These talented professionals bring both expertise and artistry to their work, which is deeply grounded in the understanding that their designs help shape healthier childhoods. Here’s how:

1. Accessibility

All children should be able to enjoy a playspace. To ensure accessibility for all, landscape architects employ specific design principles to create spaces that accommodate children with varying abilities. While playspaces might be designed for children, they are also for everyone in the community and it is important that caregivers, siblings and others who want to enter and engage in the space can do so with comfort.

The Americans with Disabilities Act states, "accessible routes must connect to at least one entry point of each play component located in a ground-level or elevated play area.” That means an accessible playground will include features like ramps with a slope of 1:12, transfer platforms and ADA-approved surfacing so children using mobility devices can join the fun. 

Going beyond access and into play equity and variety is also important. Getting into the space is one thing, but being able to engage all children is where landscape architects shine. They use their creativity to bring different play events to the space and intermix them so everyone can engage together throughout the space. Creating equity in adventure, spinning, swinging and adding surprises in unexpected places, like bridges, are ways to go above access and into a more community-centered approach to play.

2. Inclusivity

Social inclusivity is just as important as physical accessibility. A thoughtful, well-designed playground layout encourages interaction among children of all abilities who also might come from diverse backgrounds. When children engage in cooperative play, they develop empathy, practice communication skills and build lasting friendships.

An inclusive playground also will support neurodiverse children with elements such as quiet zones with shaded seating and multi-sensory stations with musical components and games. 

Especially important to children affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a place to transition into the space. Fusion Playful Fencing™ and Serenity Spot^® are two examples of these types of play events that add inclusion into the perimeter of the playspace and allow a more comfortable, engaging and enriching experience for all children.

3. Aesthetics

A visually appealing playground attracts children and caregivers alike. To create this kind of appeal, landscape architects blend the natural and build environment to create a rich space that stimulates the imagination and encourages exploration. Such a playspace will ultimately become a community gathering space, instilling a sense of pride and ownership in people of all ages. 

The American Society of Landscape Architects notes that “aesthetics and context-sensitive design inspire exploration and extend the play experience beyond function.” For children, that means a play experience overflowing with wonder and joy. 

4. Child Development

Playgrounds are essential for children’s healthy development. Imagine a playspace that features a climbing structure, slides, logs, play panels, musical instruments, a sand-and-water station and a playhouse. Here, children will be exercising their bodies and their minds as they climb, balance, explore interactive features, solve problems or build an imaginary world together. 

According to the U.S. Play Coalition, a nonprofit organization founded at South Carolina’s Clemson University in 2009, such activities support physical and emotional development, cognitive skills and social learning. When landscape architects design playspaces, they truly are supporting the whole child. 

5. Connection with Nature

Connection with nature is associated with enhanced cognitive function, reduced stress and better overall mental health in children (and everyone!). So, when landscape architects incorporate natural elements into play areas, they are helping children build and strengthen that connection to their environment.

This might mean using trees for shade or placing a tower-and-slide structure in such a way that it incorporates a natural hill. Landscape architects also might choose to work with natural features like a dry creek bed filled with movable rocks, tree stumps for climbing or flower gardens that will attract butterflies and other pollinators. After all, as the Centers for Disease Control observes, “Nature play improves mental health, supports physical activity and enhances creativity in children.” 

Landscape architects are so much more than designers of space. They are advocates for children’s well-being and provide spaces that enhance the lives of children and all community members. Their evidence-based plans and artistic vision transform a simple play area into a whole new world where kids can play, learn, grow and thrive. 

As we celebrate World Landscape Architecture Month, we are honored to recognize the lasting impact these professionals on the most precious members of our communities: our children. If you’re looking for more play inspiration, browse some of our favorite designs, visit us at CADdetails or contact your local Burke Representative for more information.