The renovated John Wayne Elementary Schoolyard was co-designed by students with a focus on creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for children of all abilities. The design reflects the school’s diverse student body, which includes many children with varying levels of mobility and sensory needs. Teachers specifically requested play elements that special-needs students could enjoy independently or with their peers, fostering both autonomy and social connection.

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At the heart of the project is a custom-designed play system that qualifies as a National Demonstration Site for Inclusive Play. This designation recognizes playgrounds meeting the 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design. This ensures the environment provides equitable, multi-sensory play opportunities for children of all ages and abilities—supporting physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.

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Key inclusive features include a sensory-rich motion experience allowing children of all abilities to play side by side, independently or with friends, Communication Panel, Accessible Ramp System – lined with interactive sensory wave panels that engage auditory, visual, and tactile senses along the route, ADA Roller Slide, Sensory Cove Climber – a quiet retreat and gathering space that doubles as a climbing element, offering a place to rest, observe, or take sensory breaks, Sensory and Music Panels, and colorful shade panels to create playful light patterns.