Inclusive Play Spaces and Events in San Diego

This month's family resource highlight focuses on inclusive play spaces and events in San Diego. Inclusivity and accessibility ensure that everyone can enjoy outdoor and recreational areas, regardless of their abilities. Here are some fantastic local opportunities for accessible play!

Play My Way San Diego

• Location: Adaptive recreation center in Mission Valley.

• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible and inclusive for ALL.

• Features:

- Swings

- Climbing wall

- Trampoline

- Sensory play area

- Small child area

- Calming zone and reading nook

- Comfortable parent lounge with a view of play areas

- Art and STEM sessions

Play My Way offers various month-to-month memberships for unlimited play sessions. Each membership includes one free guest pass. Options are available for adding a sibling, and family packages are offered for three or more kids. They also provide supported memberships that include one-on-one sessions with a play coach.

Play My Way is a vendor of the San Diego Regional Center (SDRC). This means they can offer services through SDRC funding. Contact your service coordinator for more information! Therapists are welcome to join play sessions at no extra charge. Normal charges apply for children, but therapists can tag along for free.

• Website: www.playmywaysd.com

  
  

City of San Diego Therapeutic Recreation Services

The City of San Diego provides sports, recreation, leisure, and outreach services for individuals of all ages with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities. Their fall 2025 activities include:

• Garden-to-table meals

• Garden club

• Family campfire

• Turkey trot

• Fall festival

• Holiday cookie baking

• Spooky movie night

• Drive-through trick-or-treating

• Playdays on select Sundays

• Adaptive sports for ages 8 and up

• And MORE!

  
  

You can see all events here: Fall Activities Calendar.

Beach Wheelchair Program

The beach wheelchair program offers beach wheelchairs and Access Trax, which allow individuals to use their personal wheelchair on the beach. These services are available at no charge to individuals with mobility impairments. For more information on locations and accessibility, visit: Beach Access Locations.

Why Inclusive Play Matters

Inclusive play spaces are essential for fostering a sense of community and belonging. They allow children of all abilities to interact, learn, and grow together. When children engage in inclusive play, they develop social skills and empathy. This environment helps break down barriers and promotes understanding among peers.

Benefits of Inclusive Play Spaces

1. Social Interaction: Children learn to communicate and collaborate with others.

2. Physical Development: Accessible play equipment encourages physical activity and motor skill development.

3. Emotional Growth: Inclusive environments help children build confidence and self-esteem.

4. Diverse Experiences: Exposure to different abilities fosters acceptance and understanding.

   
   

How to Encourage Inclusive Play

Parents and caregivers can play a vital role in promoting inclusive play. Here are some tips:

• Choose Inclusive Spaces: Opt for parks and play areas that offer accessible equipment.

• Engage with Others: Encourage your child to interact with peers of all abilities.

• Model Acceptance: Demonstrate inclusive behavior and language in your interactions.

• Advocate for Change: Support local initiatives that promote inclusive play spaces.

  
  

We hope you found this information helpful and that your family can enjoy some fun, inclusive activities in San Diego this fall. Remember, everyone deserves the chance to play and connect!