Accessible playgrounds for children with SMA

Last updated Oct. 31, 2025, by Susie Strachan

For parents of children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), an accessible playground offers more than just the equipment, like ramps and adaptive swings.

It offers peace of mind in knowing the space is inclusive, with reachable, low-effort activities, supportive transfer points, and surfaces that invite exploration and connection with other kids.

What makes a playground accessible?

For children living with SMA, the design of inclusive playground equipment focuses on features that support low muscle tone, limited mobility, and safety.

These design elements align with the federally recognized accessibility standards that guide playground design in the U.S., which are codified by the U.S. Access Board and reflected in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) play area guidelines.

Adaptations that provide a balance between adventurous play and protective design for children with SMA include:

• Adaptive swings: Swings with high backs, secure harnesses, or molded bucket seats give your child the opportunity to swing safely and comfortably, even with reduced trunk or neck strength.
• Ramp systems with rest platforms: Wide ramps with gentle slopes and frequent rest areas invite children who use specialized equipment like wheelchairs or gait trainers, or who experience SMA-related fatigue, to explore elevated play zones and participate in activities that might otherwise be out of reach.
• Transfer platforms: Lower transfer stations enable your child to shift from their wheelchair with minimal effort. Sturdy railings provide support and padded surfaces offer added comfort and safety as they transition to equipment like an adaptive slide or swing.
• Accessible play panels and picture boards: Picture and symbol boards positioned at accessible heights can help children with communication challenges interact more easily with their peers and caregivers.
• Wheelchair-accessible carousels and gliders: Merry-go-rounds and gliders designed to accommodate mobility devices welcome your child to spin or swing with friends, fostering inclusion and physical activity without them needing to transfer from their wheelchair.
• Wide slides with transfer ramps: Slides with gentle transfer platforms at the top, wide sliding surfaces, and side rails ensure children can slide safely, while also making supportive assistance easier for caregivers.
• Zero-entry splashpads: Outdoor splashpads with gradual, ramp-like entries provide easy access to water play areas. These zero-depth water playgrounds support physical play while keeping your child cool on hot days.
• Quiet spaces: Small sheltered nooks or sensory tents can give your child a place to regroup if play becomes overwhelming, supporting self-regulation and comfort.
• Smooth, resilient surfaces: Continuous poured-in-place rubber, synthetic turf, or interlocking tiles support wheelchair or gait trainer users when moving between activities and reduce strain for children who struggle with SMA-related fatigue.
• Caregiver-friendly features: Adaptive playgrounds can also provide caregiver comfort and accessibility through features such as accessible parking and restrooms, shaded seating, and rest areas for supervision and breaks.
• Open space and wide pathways: Ample open space and wide pathways near play areas can accommodate medical equipment use, such as respiratory devices if your child has difficulty breathing.

Why play is important for kids with SMA

Besides being fun, play is important for your child’s physical, emotional, and social development.

It supports physical growth by providing opportunities to develop motor skills, build strength, and improve coordination, all of which are also beneficial in reaching physical and occupational therapy goals.

Inclusive play spaces nurture belonging and happiness by fostering social connections and allowing children with SMA to build confidence, friendships, and communication skills.

Finding accessible playgrounds

In larger metro areas, you may find indoor play spaces in therapy clinics and children’s museums that offer climate-controlled environments where your child can play comfortably year-round, sheltered from heat waves or winter snow.

To start your search, check national directories like AccessiblePlayground.net, which offers searchable maps of accessible playgrounds across the U.S.

Community parks departments and school boards also often list accessible amenities on their websites. Try searching your location plus “accessible playground,” or call your local parks and recreation office to ask about inclusive play spaces.

Connecting with other parents through online support groups or local SMA advocacy chapters can also provide practical tips, firsthand reviews, and recommendations for finding accessible playgrounds near you.

Advocating for more accessible playgrounds

Parents, caregivers, SMA advocacy groups, and local communities can be powerful forces in advocating for more inclusive playgrounds.

Ways to get involved can include joining advocacy networks such as Cure SMA and local disability organizations, attending municipal planning meetings where playground renovations are discussed, and starting or supporting petitions demanding accessible play spaces in your area.

When working with city planners, parks staff, or landscape architects, it’s important to share your family’s lived experiences and ask specific questions about accessibility measures.

Questions to consider include:

• Are routes truly wheelchair accessible with firm, stable surfaces?
• Are transfer systems and adaptive equipment integrated?
• Is sensory-rich play included for all abilities?

By lending your voice, you can help future playgrounds not only meet official standards, but also reflect the real needs of children with SMA and their families, transforming play from a challenge into a right for everyone.

SMA News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.