Play unites all of us, but too often inclusive play spaces can be hard to find – and even when spaces are accessible, it is up to all of us to create play opportunities that are truly and fully welcoming.

Get Started

You get to choose your own experience for the Inclusive Day of Play! Whether you organize an activity for your entire neighborhood – or just head out to your favorite accessible playground with your own family, there’s no wrong way to play. Here are a few steps to get started:

• Find your perfect play area. Our interactive Inclusive Play Map offers information, photos, and videos about playgrounds near you. We’ll continue to update the map throughout the summer – and your information, photos, and videos are welcome!
• Invite friends and family. Let people know where you’ll be playing on July 27 – and why it is important. Our digital toolkit gives you some inspiration for creating the perfect email, letter, or social media post.
• Follow along for resources and tips. Throughout the summer, keep an eye on Gillette Children’s blog and social media feeds as we share more about the power of play, resources, ideas for activities, and ways to advocate for inclusive spaces.

Why Play?

Creating the opportunity for children of all abilities toplay together is not only about equity – it also enriches the play experience for all involved. When children play together, they learn to celebrate one another’s differences, fostering mutual respect and understanding, and laying the foundation for a more inclusive society.

• Play supports cognitive development. Through play, children engage in activities that stimulate their brains, enhancing their problem-solving abilities, creativity, and imagination.
• Play encourages physical activity, which is crucial for the development of motor skills, strength, and overall health and wellness.
• Play is essential for social development. Through play, children learn how to interact with others, share, take turns,and resolve conflicts. Group play fosters teamwork and cooperation, teaching children the value of working together towards a common goal.
• Play promotes emotional development. Play provides an outlet for children to express their emotions and manage stress. It helps them understand their feelings and the feelings of others, fostering empathy.

The Goal

Gillette Children’s has created our Inclusive Day of Play as a rallying cry to unite kids of all abilities. We’re sharing resources, raising awareness, and sending an open invitation to everyone throughout Minnesota and around the world to join in a day of play on Saturday, July 27.

• Let's start conversations. Between friends, families, colleagues, and neighbors – let’s encourage discussions about how we can make everyone feel more welcome on the playground and in our communities.
• Let’s learn from one another. From the features that make your favorite playground special to your top tips for facilitating inclusive play – we all have knowledge to share! As we count down to July 27, we invite you to share resources, stories, and tips to help build connections and empower play.
• Let’s call for more inclusive spaces. The Inclusive Day of Play takes place during Disability Pride Month which coincides with the anniversary of The Americans with Disabilities Act. What better time to celebrate the progress made – and highlight the work still needed – to make our communities more inclusive  

Have questions, resources, or ideas to share? Contact us! We’d love to hear from you.

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