For children with autism, a playground is not just a place for fun and games. It’s also a space for sensory experiences and social interactions important to their development.
Wedgwood Christian Services’ Autism Center for Child Development received funds from donors to build a safe playground for children with autism to explore their senses, improve motor skills and practice social interaction.
“One big difference is our playground is fenced in. A lot of our kids engage in elopement or darting away from caregivers or running away in public places. That can be very scary for families to take their kids to local parks when they can just run away.”
Dr. Candice Lake is the Director of Wedgwood’s Autism Center for Child Development and says other sensory equipment attractive to children with autism includes things that spin or move.
The Steelcase Foundation and Lake Michigan Credit Union are providing funding and volunteers to help build the inclusive playground this Thursday and Friday.
