New Inclusive Playground Opens to Support Over 200 Local Families
On May 8, a new era of inclusive recreation arrived at Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington's main campus with the official opening of its state-of-the-art playground. This project stands as one of the most significant investments in inclusive play in Washington, providing a specialized environment for early-learning and developmental growth.
David Helseth uses the new slide during the dedication ceremony for the inclusive playground at the Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington main campus. The facility was named in honor of his late wife, Kathy Helseth, who served as the long-time director of Carroll Children’s Center.
The playground was dedicated in honor of Kathy Helseth, the long-time educator and director of Carroll Children’s Center. The project serves as a tribute to her decades of service and was made possible through the collective support of Catholic Charities, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) funding, private donors, and the personal generosity of the Helseth family.
Innovative Design and Equipment
The space was intentionally designed to remove the physical and sensory barriers found in traditional play areas. It features a wide variety of adaptive equipment that allows children of all abilities to engage together. Notable installations include:
- Adaptive Motion: An Accessible Seesaw, a Unity Rocker, and a Basket Sway swing provide inclusive movement opportunities.
- Sensory Exploration: The site includes a musical play station with Congas, Chimes, Drums, and Bell Panels. Interactive elements like Gliding Gears and a Giant 4-in-a-Row activity panel encourage tactile engagement.
- Regulated Play Spaces: For children who require a calming environment, the design incorporates Cozy Cocoon sensory spaces and inclusive sensory play cubes.
- Physical Development: A Bambino A-Frame structure with a double slide, Bee Hive Stepping Stones, and Climbing Squares offer diverse ways to build gross motor skills.
Director of Advancement Steve Wilmes, Communications Manager Elly Pimentel, and Early Learning Content Specialist Lucia Maria celebrate the new equipment by testing the Accessible Seesaw. This adaptive feature is designed to promote social interaction and cooperative play for children of all abilities.
Applied Behavior Analysis Program Manager Cyrus Bricel played a key role in the design. He is particularly enthusiastic about the sensory impact: "I am really excited for spinning toys," says Cyrus. "These new features will give children with special needs a chance to get sensory experiences they just can’t get anywhere else!"
Developmental and Sensory Impact
Beyond recreation, the playground serves as a vital tool for physical, cognitive, social-emotional, and sensory development. The sensory panels and musical instruments are specifically beneficial for encouraging communication and creativity. By providing a space where children with and without disabilities play side-by-side, the facility promotes early peer interaction and helps foster a culture of acceptance and confidence.
The design also facilitates better interaction between students and educators. The accessible layout allows teachers to support play more effectively, helping children with developmental differences reach new milestones in a safe and controlled setting.
Director of Early Learning Catherine Dennis emphasizes the importance of this design choice: "By incorporating inclusive design, we can distinguish our center as a place for every child, regardless of abilities," she says.
Serving Catholic Charities Families
This facility is a dedicated resource for the children and families enrolled in Catholic Charities Early Learning programs and community-based services. Currently, more than 200 families benefit from this inclusive space. While the playground is not open for public use due to liability and program requirements, it stands as a specialized resource that ensures the benefits of play are available to those in our care throughout the year.
This project reflects an ongoing commitment to creating spaces where every child feels welcomed, supported, and able to thrive. It ensures that Kathy Helseth’s legacy of helping children learn and grow will continue for generations to come.
For information on Early Learning program availability and access to these facilities, please call 509.965.7104.
