Adapt an indoor play space

There are lots of ways to adapt a play space at home, at school or in childcare so that it’s more inclusive – for example:

• Create quiet areas or chillout zones for anyone who needs a break from the main activity
• Be aware of the acoustics – carpets and curtains can reduce noise and echoes
• Be aware of the lighting – buzzing lights and florescent strip lights can be distracting, and sudden changes in lighting can be confusing
• Watch out for clutter and things that are lying around that might get in children’s way
• Think about all the senses – try concentrating on one sense at a time to feel the effect of sound, colour, texture or smells.

Adapt an outdoor space

• There are lots of ways to adapt an outdoor space – for example:
• Plant herbs, flowers, vegetables and grasses for all year round sensory experiences
• Put plants into containers and beds at different heights and eye levels
• Create dens and small play spaces for anyone who needs a quieter or more cosy space
• Make sure it’s possible to move around the space, so that people aren’t stuck in one area
• Help children recognise different areas by using symbols, plants and flags to identify them
• Let children explore the space, getting to know it in their own time
• Make it possible for children who don’t like too much noise or unpredictability to come at quieter times

For more information about creating play spaces that are suitable for all children see our Creating accessible play spaces toolkit.