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Inclusion playground in Geretsried: A new paradise for all children!
Geretsried opens the first inclusive playground in the district. Mayor Müller emphasizes the importance of accessibility and inclusion.
Inclusion playground in Geretsried: A new paradise for all children!
A very special playground was recently opened in Geretsried, which aims to break down the barriers between children with and without disabilities. Mayor Michael Müller (CSU) proudly presented the first inclusively planned playground in the district on Schlierseeweg. Despite the rainy weather, numerous children and parents came to the opening. Müller described the new venue as unique and a significant step in promoting inclusion in the city. There have also been positive experiences with inclusive playgrounds in neighboring towns such as Miesbach and Olching, but in Geretsried a new standard is being set that points to the seriousness of inclusion in everyday life.
The playground impresses with its well-thought-out design: a disabled parking space and barrier-free, paved paths ensure easy access. The specially made play equipment is designed so that all children can play together. These include a sand baking table with a sand elevator, a pouring tube, a trampoline, an integrative climbing mikado as well as a nest swing with a large basket and a playhouse with a ramp. This variety of options promotes playing together - an aspect that, according to a study by Human Action is of great importance for the development and coexistence of children with and without disabilities.
Citizen participation and planning
The idea to redesign the playground came from the citizens, and the youth council was particularly active. Several committed citizens, including Stephanie and Malte Stapel as well as Marco and Leon Teubert, were mentioned by name for their contributions to the planning of the project. In addition, the technical planning was carried out by Robert Schmidt-Ruiu and his team from “Design Together” as well as Lukas Hamm. This model impressively shows how citizen participation can be integrated into the development of municipal projects.
The total costs for the Geretsried inclusion playground amounted to 160,000 euros. In his opening speech, Mayor Müller emphasized the city's responsibility to promote inclusion and meet the need for playgrounds in residential areas. Inclusion should become the norm in playgrounds, even if it is not yet widespread, as the study by Human Action shows that it was found that 80% of playgrounds are not barrier-free.
The opening of the new playground is just the beginning: other projects quickly became apparent. A workshop for a playground on Johann-Sebastian-Bach-Straße will take place at the end of October. This underlines the city's commitment to further promote inclusive ideas.
Finally, it is important to promote mutual exchange. Dr. Volker Anneken from the Research Institute for Inclusion through Movement and Sport ( FIBS ) highlights the importance of introducing children to acceptance of differences at an early age. In the newly designed playgrounds, children can play together, get to know each other better and learn from each other.