Located at Cooke School in Northville, Michigan, the playground offers an exceptional space for children of all abilities to play, explore, and enjoy sensory-rich activities. Designed for children aged 5 to 12, this playground not only encourages fun but is a vital tool for teaching and physical therapy. Installed in May 2013, this inclusive playground is a game-changer for the community, with features that make it accessible, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
A Fully Fenced-In Playground for Safety and Peace of Mind
One of the standout features of the Cooke School playground is that it is completely fenced-in. While many playgrounds promote accessibility, they often overlook the needs of children with intellectual disabilities or autism, many of whom are prone to elopement (running away). The secure fencing around the playground provides parents and caregivers peace of mind. Thus allowing them to sit back and relax, knowing their children are safe and can’t wander off into busy areas like parking lots or roads.
Temperature-Reducing Sun Shades at Cooke School Playground
Cooke School’s playground is equipped with CoolToppers® Single Post Pyramid Roofs, which provide more than just shade. These sun shades are temperature-reducing and can make the area underneath up to 20 degrees cooler! For children with disabilities who may have difficulty with temperature regulation, this feature is essential. Even on the hottest summer days, the playground remains a comfortable and cool space for kids to play.
Cooke School Playground Wheelchair-Accessible Swings
The playground includes swings designed specifically for wheelchair users. Thus, ensuring that children who rely on wheelchairs for upper body positioning and stability can also enjoy swinging. Platform-equipped swings allow children to remain securely in their wheelchairs while enjoying the joy and movement of a swing. Therefore making the playground a truly inclusive space for children of all physical abilities.
A Range of Sensory and Fitness Activities at Cooke School Playground
From the OmniSpin® Spinner to the Sway Fun® Glider, the Cooke School playground offers a wide variety of sensory play elements. These activities cater to children who benefit from sensory stimulation, making it a favorite among kids seeking dynamic play experiences. Additionally, the HealthBeat® outdoor fitness system provides fitness-focused activities for older kids (13+) and adults. Located near the back of the playground, this area includes fitness structures with detailed instructions, making it a great space for families to engage in physical activity together.
Adjustable Basketball Hoops for All Ages
The playground also includes adjustable basketball hoops, allowing both children and adults to use them. This adaptability ensures that everyone, regardless of age or ability, can join in the fun and enjoy a game of basketball.
Sensory Play and Climbing Galore
Sensory play panels, climbers, and slides fill the playground, sparking children’s imagination and helping them develop important motor skills. Some of the key play structures include:
- Rollerslide and Single Wave Slide
- Saddle Spinner and Stand-Up Spinner
- Cascade Climber, Conical Climber™, and Chain Ladder
- Sensory activity panels like the Bongo Reach Panel and Bubble Panel
Located at 21200 Taft Road, Northville, MI 48167, the Cooke School playground is open to the community and has become a favorite spot for local families.
For more information, visit Cooke School’s Website.
Find more Southeast Michigan Inclusive Playgrounds.
Author: Amber Louchart
Meet Amber, a busy work-at-home mom to four fantastic kids: Damian (27), Rosaleigh (15), Carlyn (12), and Naomi (9)! 🌟 When she’s not running Metro Detroit Mommy, she loves to dive into creative projects like drawing, photography, and crafting, or unwind with some gardening, reading, and meditation. 🌿🎨📸 Amber cherishes the moments she gets to spend with her kids and feels incredibly fortunate to provide them with endless opportunities and experiences through her work. She’s also on a personal journey, focusing on improving her emotional health every day. 💖✨ Life is full, fun, and always an adventure with Amber and her crew! 🎉
Meet Amber, a busy work-at-home mom to four fantastic kids: Damian (27), Rosaleigh (15), Carlyn (12), and Naomi (9)! 🌟 When she’s not running Metro Detroit Mommy, she loves to dive into creative projects like drawing, photography, and crafting, or unwind with some gardening, reading, and meditation. 🌿🎨📸
Amber cherishes the moments she gets to spend with her kids and feels incredibly fortunate to provide them with endless opportunities and experiences through her work. She’s also on a personal journey, focusing on improving her emotional health every day. 💖✨
Life is full, fun, and always an adventure with Amber and her crew! 🎉
Photographer:
Meagen Hudson is a mother middle school counselor and mother to two wonderful children, Winnie and Gus. Gus has a rare genetic condition called Phelan-McDermid Syndrome that causes intellectual disability, autism, delayed/absent speech, hypotonia, and many other medical conditions. Because of this, she loves to promote inclusivity, awareness, and making the world a better place for children/people like her son. In her spare time, she loves to read horror and thriller novels, dance, and spend time with her family and friends.