Sensory-Friendly Playground Opens At Centennial Park North

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A new sensory-friendly playground has opened at Centennial Park North featuring two expression swings, a Zero-G swing chair, a Merry-Go-All, a nonverbal communication board and musical instruments. It's the first PlayCore National Demonstration Site in Howard County. The second phase of the park's renovation project will include a sensory trail set to open in the summer.

“This new addition to Centennial Park is a testament to our ongoing commitment to ensure our public spaces meet the needs of everyone in our community, of all ages and abilities,” Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said. “This playground was designed with principles of fairness, inclusion, independence, comfort and safety, and we can’t wait to welcome families to enjoy this exceptional space.”

For the second phase of the playground’s sensory-friendly play experience, sensory play equipment pods will be designed in cooperation with a stakeholder planning group comprised of residents, parents of consumers, disability advocates and county recreation and parks staff members. Construction on this phase is expected to begin in late spring and weather permitting, should be completed in summer 2022. Once complete, the area will also include a paved pathway and fence that encircles the playground and amenities.

“How appropriate that we are using this space through play with the youngest members of our community to introduce the values of inclusion, acceptance and kindness. These values will guide them throughout their lives to believe that of course, we have inclusive play spaces. Of course, we have inclusive workplaces. Of course, we have inclusive education. They won’t even give it a second thought," Howard County Autism Society Executive Director Melissa Rosenberg said.

“When you build spaces like this that consider our children’s sensory needs, interests and sensitivities, you’re making us feel welcome,” added Hussman Foundation representative Beth Benevides. “When you consider our communication styles and needs with these beautiful communication boards, you’re saying we want you to feel connected. When you build ramps and swings for wheelchairs, you’re saying we want you to access this playground and enjoy it! Simply put, our family feels embraced by actions such as this.”