Fitting in: Interior Design Sets the Stage for Accessible Play Spaces for Children with Disabilities

Abstract

Though the prevalence of childhood obesity has leveled off in the recent two years, it remains unacceptably high and places children at risk for several health and psychosocial-related outcomes. To decrease the incidence of obesity, children are encouraged to spend at least 60 minutes per day, 6 days a week, participating in vigorous physical activity. While most children have access to inviting play spaces, children with disabilities oftentimes do not. The purpose of the project, “Fitting In,” was to encourage students to research a specific disability, and then to develop, design, and present a play space that promotes physical activity participation among children with disabilities. The project was developed to meet several content and competency standards set forth by the National Association of State Administrators of Family and Consumer Sciences (NASAFACS). Because of the overall success of the project, it may be considered a “Promising Practice” among educators within Family and Consumer Sciences.