The inclusive play workgroup focuses on increasing awareness of the issues related to inclusive play environments. We believe play environments must be developed in the context of how children live their lives. By championing programs which demonstrate excellence in these areas, the workgroup strives to demonstrate that a healthier and safer world can be created for all children through access to play.

 For more information please use this form and someone from the coalition will contact you.

Do you know of an organization, program or site dedicated to play that demonstrates excellence in inclusion, accessibility, receptiveness, and/or responsiveness? Tell us about it!

Workgroup History: Inclusive Play Workgroup Launched!

With Amy Jaffe Barzach, Founder and Director Emeritus of Boundless Playgrounds, appointed by IFC as the chairwoman of the Inclusive Play Workgroup, a call for members, advisors and/or advocates of inclusive play was announced in August 2008. The workgroup strived to increase awareness of the issues related to inclusive play environments and will champion programs that demonstrate excellence in these areas. Interested parties were asked to submit the following information to jmadri1@uic.edu by August 20, 2008: Name, affiliation, contact info including address, telephone numbers, email; why they were interested in serving; and experience related to accessible and inclusive play environments. In addition, Amy was available to discuss the group via email at barzacha@yahoo.com.

Workgroup's Exploratory Conference Calls
 

Exploratory conference calls were held on August 21st, 2008 and September 4th, 2008 at 12 noon ET. Collectively, 12 people signed up to participate in the calls and an additional 5 people expressed further interest. Two final exploratory conference calls took place on November 19th, 2008 and December 4th, 2008 at 12 noon ET.  To view each call's agenda and meeting minutes, please visit our archives.


As an organization dedicated to inclusive play, this workgroup is committed to inclusive practices and welcomes additional participants to sign up by contacting Allison Hoit at allisonh@lakeshore.org at any time.