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Large-scale play equipment for children with or without disabilities is being installed at an increasing number of children's playgrounds under the management of Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD). The equipment will not only enable the children to have fun but also help them learn to interact with other people and grow up as part of a harmonious community.
Renovation work recently completed at playgrounds in Lai Chi Kok Park, Kowloon Park and Tin Shui Wai Park has also introduced new and large-scale inclusive children's play equipment at these venues. Similar facilities were installed at Quarry Bay Park last year and have been warmly welcomed by all children, with or without disabilities. LCSD plans to provide similar facilities at Sha Tin Park and Po Hong Park in Sai Kung in the coming one to two years.
There are more than 800 sets of children's play equipment of different types and sizes at LCSD's venues throughout the territory, most of which are designed with inclusive elements.
A department spokesman said today (February 6), "The large-scale play equipment is designed in an integrated way to promote harmony and inclusiveness among the kids. The play equipment provides barrier-free access on which children with different physical conditions can manoeuvre.
"There are also rotatable platforms or inclined ramps to facilitate those using wheelchairs."
Elements of intelligence are blended into the design of the play sets to suit the needs of children with different physical conditions. There are play panels to help develop their intelligence, tactile sensations, vision and hearing. The play sets also help boost their physical fitness by building muscle strength in the upper and lower limbs as well as enhancing balancing ability. Additionally, children can obtain knowledge in different areas such as nature or mathematics while having fun on the play sets.
The play sets come in many colours with attractive patterns for children's visual pleasure. They can also make use of the built-in musical instruments, such as drums and sounding tubes, producing nice tunes. The play sets are also equipped with Braille and movable parts in various shapes to stimulate children's tactile sensations.
The spokesman said that the children's play equipment complies with international safety standards. The department's professional structural engineer and technical team closely monitor the installation process and inspect the facilities before opening them for public use. Venue staff will also oversee the daily maintenance and repair works of the facilities to ensure their good conditions.
"With this uniquely-designed, interesting and practical children's play equipment, children with and without disabilities can play and learn in a joyful and safe environment. Making friends with one another, they will learn to accept and respect other people while their communication skills will also be enhanced," the spokesman added.
In view of its growing popularity and for the benefit of children as well as the community at large, LCSD will continue to provide more inclusive play equipment in its venues, taking into account the physical environment, site constraints and the specific circumstances of individual venues.
Ends/Sunday, February 6, 2011
Issued at HKT 14:01
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