Episode 4: Tina Stanton-Chapman designs playgrounds for all

This episode of "CECH Chats" features Tina Stanton-Chapman, a Professor of Early Childhood Education and Human Development at the University of Cincinnati and a Fulbright Specialist Scholar for the U.S. Department of Defense. She specializes in the development of peer relationships in children with disabilities, specifically preschoolers with specific language impairment, behavioral disorders and autism spectrum disorder.

Her current research centers on designing playgrounds that incorporate the Principles of Universal Design, where all individuals are able to participate in play regardless of age, gender, race/ethnicity, culture and ability. This interest can be traced all the way back to 1997, during her time as a teacher at Miami-Dade Public Schools, when she observed two of her students who, due to special needs, were unable to enjoy recess on the playground with the rest of the class. The moment was a catalyst for her research, and today she’s designed four playgrounds that are accessible to not only children of all abilities, but also the adults who accompany them.

In this episode, Stanton-Chapman tells us about designing playgrounds that adhere to Universal Design. She talks about the challenges of aligning academic research with the business operations of playground manufacturers, bringing zip lines to American playgrounds, benefits of accessible equipment for grandparents and more.