Say What? What is Equal Play?

As a member of the Rotary Club of San Jose and a Park Commissioner for the City of San Jose I don’t have to tell you that I’m passionate about parks. And I’m passionate that our parks be accessible to everyone in every way.

Finally, after many years, the recreational needs of children and adults with disabilities are being addressed and something is actually being done about it. This includes accessible trails, (adaptive) sporting events, camping opportunities and equal play parks.

The San Jose City Council recently approved the Rotary Club of San Jose’s project for their 100 year anniversary. What’s the project? It’s an equal play park that the Rotary Club will construct as a “turnkey” project and gift it to the city.

For those of you who may not know the meaning of “equal play” it means just that; a play area that includes equipment for all children regardless of their abilities or disabilities, to play equally side by side. The play area has not yet been designed, however, will feature elements that will address all children but in particular children with special needs and disabilities to make a day at the park a fun experience for all.

In my opinion, there’s no better way to raise awareness than for children with special needs than to play side by side with their able bodied friends, siblings and peers. Equal-play parks, sometimes referred to as “boundless playgrounds” are popping up everywhere and it’s about time!

Our neighborhood community centers also offer many programs and all access recreation activities. I encourage you to check them out. To learn more go to the PRNS website www.sanjoseca.gov/prns.

Special thanks to the City of San Jose and the Rotary Club of San Jose for making the dream of an equal-play park a reality!

Best,
Julie