Date Presented 04/03/2025
This research aims to expand OT practitioners' knowledge of inclusive playground design by exploring autistic adults' perspectives of their preferences, in order to expand access to community-based recreation and play.
Primary Author and Speaker: Marla Davis
Additional Authors and Speakers: Emma Shreiner, Madison Drumheller, Hayley Biesiadecki
PURPOSE: OTPs can play a key role in the design process, alongside playground design professionals, to ensure full inclusivity. Limited research exists on creating an inclusive playground environment for autistic individuals. This research aimed to gain the perspectives of autistic adults about their previous or current lived experiences regarding playgrounds and their preferences for playground design to promote a more inclusive playground environment.
DESIGN: This study used a mixed methods survey design. Participants included adults 18 years or older with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, recruited using convenience, voluntary response, and snowball sampling procedures.
METHOD: Participants completed an online survey consisting of closed-ended and open ended questions based on proposed recommendations from Fernelius & Christensen's (2017) systematic review as well as a previous unpublished study from a prior student-led research group (Guelcher et al., 2023). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative responses were analyzed using thematic analysis, with researcher triangulation to increase validity.
RESULTS: Themes that arose included development through risk and variety, consideration of sensory experiences, comfortable spaces that are secluded but included, and a safe and welcoming environment. Additional information was provided on axillary playground features, such as restrooms, to further promote an inclusive environment.
CONCLUSION: OTPs are uniquely positioned as key stakeholders in the design of inclusive playgrounds and can intervene at the population level to make a significant impact. This study aimed to further investigate autistic adults' perspectives on current recommended best practices for inclusive playground design, identifying four key design themes, each with specific recommendations, that OTPs can use in consultation with the playground design industry.
References
Fernelius, C. L., & Christensen, K. M. (2017). Systematic review of evidence-based practices for inclusive playground design. Children, Youth and Environments, 27(3), 78–102. https://doi.org/10.7721/chilyoutenvi.27.3.0078
Guelcher, K., Kennedy, B., Williamson, E., & Zeller, G. (2023). Honoring all forms of play: Autistic perspectives on inclusive playgrounds [Unpublished manuscript]. Department of Occupational Therapy, Elizabethtown College.
