Ferndale, a community committed to fostering inclusivity, is set to unveil a transformative new playground that will cater to children of all abilities. This innovative project, spearheaded by the Ferndale School District, aims to create a space where every child can thrive and find joy in the simple pleasures of play.
Ferndale's new playground, set to be constructed at the Mountain View Learning Center, will be the first of its kind in the region – a fully inclusive space designed to accommodate children with diverse needs. This project, made possible by a 0,000 grant from Whatcom County, will transform the existing playground facilities, ensuring that children with physical, cognitive, or sensory challenges can engage in play alongside their peers.The current playground at the Mountain View Learning Center, which serves 114 preschool students, has fallen short in meeting the needs of the diverse student population. Many of the children are too small to fully utilize the equipment, and the lack of adaptability has posed significant barriers for those with physical disabilities. The upcoming inclusive playground will address these shortcomings, providing a safe and engaging environment for all.
Designing for Accessibility and Inclusion
The new playground will feature a pour-in-place base and ramps, allowing children in wheelchairs to seamlessly access and experience the play structures. This thoughtful design, developed in collaboration with a committee of parents, teachers, and community members, ensures that every child can participate and enjoy the playground to the fullest."In our first meeting, one of the moms was all teary," shared Tracy Diehl, a grant writer at Ferndale School District. "She's like, 'My daughter's never been able to use a slide, and she'll be able to use a slide now,' so it's just really exciting to see the excitement."The inclusive playground will cater to children aged 3 to 5, providing a safe and engaging space for the students of the Mountain View Learning Center. Additionally, the playground will be open to the public outside of regular school hours, fostering a sense of community and allowing families to come together and learn from one another.
Fostering a Inclusive Community
The Ferndale School District's commitment to inclusive play extends beyond the physical design of the playground. The project has been a collaborative effort, with a dedicated committee gathering feedback from parents, teachers, and community members to ensure the final design meets the needs of all children."I think it's a need for families to come as a community and learn about each other and play together on the weekends, and just have that experience where everyone can play," said Ashley Hill, the principal of the Mountain View Learning Center. "Because every child deserves to play, no matter what their abilities are."This inclusive playground project not only addresses the immediate needs of the students at the Mountain View Learning Center but also serves as a beacon of hope for the broader Ferndale community. By creating a space where children of all abilities can come together and play, the district is fostering a culture of understanding, empathy, and celebration of diversity.
