Make-A-Wish Royalview Elementary – North Royalton, OH

The Stella family had but one small wish: for their son to have a place to play with his friends. That wish came true in a big way.

After a year in the works, the family’s hope of an inclusive playground for their oldest son, Charlie, 6, and children like him with disabilities, to be able to play alongside their typical peers was granted and unveiled at a special ribbon-cutting ceremony Sept. 23 at Royal View Elementary.

With the help of Snider Recreation and the North Royalton School District, Make-A-Wish surprised the North Royalton family with an announcement that there would be equipment added to the schools playground that would benefit not only their son, but all the children.

Snider Recreation’s philosophy is “Play for Everyone”. We try our best to help guide playground designs that promote a focus on inclusive play, so children of all abilities can play together in a safe and comfortable environment. We are honored to be involved with Charlie’s wish and helping create an inclusive environment for him and all the children who will use the playground.

The cruiser features room for two wheelchairs and two full bench seating to allow up to 12 children of all abilities to play together. The handles at both ends allow adults or children to assist with the motion and enjoy the experience.The other parts of the playground have challenging fitness-oriented equipment to help the children stay active and engaged. It has ramps for wheelchairs, and the playground has the ability for expansion too.