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The Washington Jaycees, in conjunction with the Washington Parks Department, have been working for over a year on adding a playground to Washington that is not restrictive to those with disabilities. With the nearest handicapped-accessible playground over 30 miles away, many area parents began expressing the desire to have one closer to home.

The park area will be completely accessible and will reach multiple groups with varying disabilities. This playground will be used by area physical therapists to address motor skill deficiencies in people with disabilities. Equipment that encourages climbing can provide great gross motor reinforcement, as can outdoor play equipment that encourages jumping. Tunnels that encourage crawling can support the development of muscle strength and general coordination. Outdoor activities can play an important role in sensory integration therapy. Among the many outdoor toys that can be beneficial to those with sensory integration deficits are swings, carousels or sit-and-spin toys, ball pits, sand boxes, and trampolines.

Outdoor play can also be used to support the development of social and communication skills. Since movement stimulates the verbal centers of the brain, outdoor play can be very helpful in enhancing communication skills. Outdoor toys and equipment that encourage cooperative play can provide a relaxed environment in which social skills can be learned, practiced, or observed. Playground equipment can entice children into interaction with peers, especially beneficial for those who tend to be anxious and withdrawn in group settings. By keeping all this in mind, equipment will be chosen that will not only enhance the park experience for special needs children, but for all typically developed children, truly making this an all abilities park.

The park will be located on the southeast side of Lions Lake. The Jaycees are currently raising funds for the project, which is set to begin construction in the Fall of 2011.