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Illinois-based architect Charles M. Schwab, who specializes in universal design with sustainability, has researched and written articles outlining the elements of inclusive and welcoming play spaces for children. When it comes to indoor play, Schwab recommends that families have a designated "play-away room." Ideally, such a room would be visible from the home’s common areas while providing kids their own space to play and grow.
Elements of a welcoming play-away room include the following:
Safe and resilient flooring
It’s desirable to have a soft floor finish so kids can fall gently when roughhousing a bit. Rubber interconnecting floor tiles are a good choice. When the kids get older, it can be replaced with thin, tight-looped, allergen-free and stain-resistant carpet that will still allow for wheelchair use, if necessary. Carpet also helps absorb excessive noise.
Colour
Colour has a powerful impact when used with intent and can really fire your kids’ imagination and creativity. Take a little time to research the qualities of various colours and let your kids explore their favourite colours with crayons and watercolours. Simple wall paint provides another easy and affordable way to make a colourful impact.
Window
There should be a window or other source of natural light in the play-away room for it to be successful and enjoyable as a play space. If possible, light from two wall sides is most pleasing. Consider creating a special spot by building a window seat.
Storage
Some form of shelves or storage within the universal reach range of 18 to 48 inches above the floor will provide a place to organize toys and books and encourage your children to pick up after themselves.
Table and chairs
Kids need a place to sit and create, so appropriately sized table and chairs are essential. A variation of sizes are beneficial for kids of varying sizes. Don’t forget seating for you so you can join your children at play. It’s best to sit down at their level.
Shelter
We all know kids love shelter and like to make cubbie forts most anywhere. Ideas for unique forts include opening up the underside of a stairway and using cardboard or plywood to build a hollow tree trunk, a subway or skyscrapers.
Detailed explanations of the above concepts can be found in Schwab’s article, An Indoor and Inclusive Play-away Room Can Be a Building Block For Happy Children, which appeared in the July 2015 issue of EP Magazine, at www.eparent.com. It’s also available on Schwab’s website: www.universaldesignonline.com.
