HELLO!
Wood County Plays is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that designs, fundraises, and builds fully inclusive play spaces that allow children of all abilities to play side by side. A beneficial resource in Northwest Ohio, Wood County Plays steering committee consists of therapists, teachers, community members, and parents of kids with special needs to develop an inclusive playground that promotes learning, empathy, communication, and understanding among children.
We're Wood County Plays
A Community Need
Play is one of the most important ways that children can explore the world - to learn, grow and build relationships. It helps to develop emotional, psychological, physical and cognitive skills. These skills include communication, creativity, self-concept, emotional expression and regulation, empathy, fine and gross motor skills, symbolism, fantasy and many more!*
Nearly
1 OUT 5 PERSONS
in the U.S. has a disability**
90% OF PARENTS
believe inclusive playgrounds should be provided***
Persons with disabilities represent the
LARGEST MINORITY
*Russ, S. W. (2004). Play in Child Development and Psychotherapy: Toward Empirically Supported Practice. Mahwah, N.J.: Lawrence Erlbaum
**https://www.curbed.com/2018/7/20/17582148/accessible-playgrounds-design-ada-standards-inclusive
*** https://www.nrpa.org/About-National-Recreation-and-Park-Association/press-room/new-poll-americans-want-inclusive-play-options-at- playgrounds-nationwide
Our Inspiration
According to the CDC: Americans with Disabilities, 17% of children under age 18 have some type of disability, with 10% of children needing some type of assistance. Our community is no different, here are just a few families that would be greatly impacted by all-inclusive playgrounds in Wood County!
An outgoing kiddo that loves playing outside with friends. He needs an accessible space to use his walker.
Grant
A little dare devil that needs a surrounding fence to play safely at the park with his older brother.
Asher
With a heart of gold, she needs a space that provides a fun and engaging space to play with friends.
Blakely
A fun-loving guy that wants to play side-by-side with his sister on swings, slides and clubhouses.
Cooper
A little girl who loves outside and keeping up with big sister at home and on the playground
Mallorie
A family that chooses between an inclusive family trip with all their children or a play space designed for their daughers