Playgrounds are where kids can be kids.
They can slide, swing, run and play to their heart’s content. But finding a place where children with special needs can do the same can be a little more of a challenge.
Luckily, Northern Virginia has several locations that can accommodate everyone for days filled with fun for the whole family.
Clemyjontri Park
Accessible ramps, wide openings and rubber surfacing are just the beginning of what makes this park available for everyone looking to have some fun. The swingsets have high backs, arm rests and safety features, as well as Virginia’s first Liberty Swing, which allows wheelchair users to swing and feel the wind in their hair without being transferred from their wheelchair. Otherwise, there is close and convenient parking, shaded areas, lowered monkey bars and sensory-rich equipment throughout the park. // 6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean; free
Chessie’s BIG Backyard at Lee District Park
Looking to get a quiet escape in the woods? This playground has swings and slides, but it also has an accessible treehouse where visitors can feel as tall as the trees and get a look at the natural stream. The play areas have soft rubber surfaces with low platforms, as well as an accessible splash pad known as Nautical Cove, where all children can cool off in the hot summer months. Make friends with the accessible sea monster, hear a friendly dolphin speak or pretend to be a pirate and let your child’s imagination run wild. // 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria; free
Claude Moore Fun for All Playground
Teeter totters have gotten a makeover. The new-and-improved playground feature is much more accessible to everyone thanks to its high backs, as well as its four places for children to sit rather than just two. This playground has a variety of ramps to get to equipment easily, a harness swing and plenty of sensory-friendly areas where children can experience different sounds (drums, steering wheels and crank gears) as well as other senses such as Braille panels and differing textures. // 800 Waterloo Road, Warrenton
Potomac Yard Park
With two separate areas of the playground devoted to children above and below 5 years old, this park allows every kid to enjoy themselves based on their desire to run, experience and play how they please. For the older kids, the playground has high slides and accessible ramps for everyone. For the younger ones, there are sensory-interactive features such as sound-play devices and a small maze. One of the best parts? Parents don’t have to worry about their kids running as both areas are fully enclosed by fencing. // 2501 Potomac Ave., Alexandria
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