Since 2006, it has been the mission of the Touched by Olivia Foundation to help improve the health and happiness of Australian kids. One of our initiatives is firmly focused on creating a level playing field for children with special needs. Livvi’s Place is a concept for all abilities playground that enable children and parents of all abilities and ages to play side-by side on the same equipment, ensuring integration of children and families with special needs.

It is the vision of Touched by Olivia Foundation that there will be a Livvi’s Place in every community. There are currently four Livvi's Places in Australia, with Ryde, Penrith, Perth, Melbourne and Jindabyne all planned for 2012.

An all abilities playground should be one that at a minimum caters for vision, hearing and mobility impairments as well as spectrum disorders. Catering for one disability, does not satisfy the definition of all abilities. A playground can only be truly considered all abilities if it adequately caters to the physical and emotional needs of all members of the community. Click here to read our Fact Sheet

Livvi’s Place Playgrounds provide a unique environment for childrens of all ages and all abilities to play side by side. Extensive research and community consultation have gone into the development of these playgrounds to make them truly world class facilities.

The aim of the Touched By Olivia Foundation is to work in partnership with local councils or corporations to build these state of the art all abilities playgrounds. They encourage families and social groups to meet in a child friendly environment.

Key characteristics

Equal Access - each playground includes soft fall rubber flooring, visual and audio stimulation and are configured to maximise creative, physical, social and cognitive play

Security and safety - totally fenced so parents have peace of mind as to the location of their children. Shaded for protection from the elements

Facilities for older children and family get togethers - ideally, the playgrounds adjoin or incorporate facilities:

• For the enjoyment of older children, such as swimming facilities and playing ovals
• To enable family BBQs and get togethers like tables and benches and toilet facilities
• Providing ample and accessible parking
• That overall, create a family friendly environment where people choose to meet and socialise whilst their children play

Replicable design - the playgrounds have features which can be replicated in any community park.

Want to know more?

• Our inclusive play strategy
• Checklist for choosing a location

 

Get involved!  

Would you like a playground in your community? Or would you like to become a partner or sponsor some playground equipment? Email john.perkins@touchedbyolivia.com.au