Building Summit School’s New Inclusive Outdoor Playgrounds

This year, we’re launching Project Play—an ambitious and vital effort to build two brand-new outdoor playgrounds designed especially for Summit School students. These inclusive, carefully designed spaces will allow every child to play, explore, and thrive in an environment that truly supports their sensory, social, and behavioral needs.

At Summit, we know that play isn’t just fun — it’s essential. For many neurodiverse children, especially those with autism, play is a powerful gateway to connection, communication, confidence, and joy.

These won’t be ordinary play areas. They will be vibrant, immersive spaces where students can build friendships, spend energy, and explore through all five senses. Designed for both collaborative and independent play, they will support mental health, nurture emotional regulation, and help every child find their place — and their peace.

While Summit’s programs already foster independence and autonomy, our current playgrounds no longer meet the unique needs of our students. Project Play will change that. These new environments will give children the freedom to explore, make choices, and take initiative — all through unstructured, self-directed play that builds lifelong skills.

What our new playground will offer...

 Intuitive Layouts that help students feel confident, not overwhelmed

   Sensory Engagement through equipment that strengthens regulation and responsiveness

   Balancing Activities to support vestibular and proprioceptive development

   Quiet Retreats where students can regroup during sensory overload

Social Interaction Zones that encourage cooperative play and friendship building

 Accessible Equipment designed for a wide range of abilities and needs