The Jamestown Rotary Club has added sensory-friendly playground equipment to Jamestown City Park.
President April Conatser said sensory parks are designed to stimulate or soothe the five senses. Conatser said the club saw a need for space in the park where anyone could play, regardless of their ability.
“Every element of the area was chosen with an expert input to ensure accessibility, and safety, and engagement,” Conatser said. “It’s truly a space where basically, no child is left out.”
Conatser said the space currently has a large spinner, interactive panels and a rubber mulch surfacing in place of sand. Conatser said the equipment was placed in a shady, wheelchair accessible area.
Conatser said the equipment was funded through grants and fundraisers. Conatser said she does not know of any other sensory friendly equipment in the Upper Cumberland.
“In the future, we would like to add some more pieces,” Conatser said. “I don’t know which pieces that would be, because we did reach out to Little Tykes, and they also helped us pick out the pieces that best went with the sensory stimulation.”
Conatser said the idea came from the Rotary Club’s conversation with teachers, which made them realize how many people had sensory issues. Conatser said community feedback has been positive.
“We wanted all of the children to enjoy the park,” Conatser said. “Even if someone has a special need, they could come to the park and enjoy the park with everyone else.”
Conatser said people of all ages and abilities can use the new sensory equipment.
