Using playground and community spaces safely

Consider this advice if your child has physical, visual or sensory difficulties:

• Before accessing a new play/community activity, it would be helpful to research the place to
  see what facilities are available
• Introduce different activities gradually e.g. at a park try gently swinging on the swing before
  going any higher
• If your child has a visual impairment, there may be access to a specialist worker, either from
  the Local Authority of Voluntary Organisations such as Royal National Institute of Blind
  People (RNIB)/Visibility who can provide guidance for parents on how best to support the
  child’s needs
• Some children find ear defenders or earphones helpful in very busy noisy places
• Identifying a quiet area in the playground where your child can have some quiet time may
  be useful
• Consider going to the park/ community place when it is less busy if your child struggles with
  noisy/ busy environments
• Some children may need a referral to the wheelchair service for a major buggy/ wheelchair,
  depending on their physical ability

Useful websites
https://www.accessiblecountryside.org.uk/devon
https://www.devon.gov.uk/roadsandtransport/parking/blue-badge-parking