Adaptive Swing Seats Installed in All Neighborhood Parks

After a long day of therapy, nothing makes Garden City resident Audrey McCarton happier than playing on the swings at her neighborhood park. Audrey, who was diagnosed with microcephaly and a CASK gene mutation, is non-verbal and just began walking at two-and-a-half years old.

Audrey, who will turn 5 in December, has gotten too big for the park’s baby swings.

Audrey’s Mom, Tara, requested the Village install an adaptive swing seat at Edgemere Park so she didn’t have to travel elsewhere for Audrey to play. Active in the Respite community at St. Anne's Church and president of the Mom's Club, Tara knew the handicap accessible swing would benefit many children.

“This will hopefully inspire other moms with kids with special needs to bring them out and enjoy the park together with our kids’ peers. Having this swing and giving our kids the chance to be in an inclusive fun environment with their peers where we can have teachable moments on kindness and love, I can’t think of a better time for this swing to be installed,” she said.

“I am truly grateful to the treasurer of the Western Property Owners’ Association and all others involved that made this request a reality. You have all made such a difference in the lives of these children, you will see the smiles on their faces will tell it all! It is the little things that we as Special Needs Parents learn to appreciate and are eternally grateful for.”

The Department of Recreation and Parks has always provided facilities and programs for the masses. Providing these adaptive swings in all Garden City playgrounds now provides inclusion for all special needs children as well, Kevin Ocker, chairman of the Board of Commissioners of Cultural and Recreational Affairs, said. He added, “We are so pleased that this segment of our population is now better served and can enjoy a leisure activity with family and friends in their own neighborhood park.”

To further cater to Garden City’s special needs community, the Department began offering a series of events and activities geared toward special needs adults, ages 18 and up. A Mini Golf Social was held at Garden City Community Park in October and future offerings will include exercise programs, arts and crafts, and other social events.

To read more about Audrey’s journey, visit www.audreymccarton.com. For further information about the Department of Recreation and Parks offerings, visit www.gardencityrecreation.org or call Sandy Young at 465-4076.