The joy of playing outdoors is universal; feeling a warm summer breeze or the nip of fall air. The gift of the playground to disabled orphans is a gift of not only improved health, but of joy. Children living at the Barlad facility for disabled orphans have no outdoor exercise. Playground activities impact weight, physical strength and long-term ability to fight off illness. Many of the kids have physical challenges. An inclusive playground means all children can benefit from outdoors play!
Special needs children living in disability centers are suffering physically, cognitively and emotionally. They do not have many opportunities for exercise, fresh air or play. These medically fragile kids face long-term health effects of lack of exercise There is also substantial research showing a link between play and brain development, motor skills and social skills. The Barlad facility is in Vaslui County, the poorest area of the E.U. There is no government funding for building playgrounds.
We are partnering with the orphanage Director in creating outdoor and indoor play spaces for the children. A Delia Foundation Trustee in Barlad is the project manager.Research from the Families First Commission shows "all learning-emotional, social, motor and cognitive-is accelerated, facilitated, and fueled by the pleasure of play." Not only will the kids receive physical benefit from the playground but it will have a positive effect on many areas of their overall development.
The Playground will provide a healthy outdoor environment for 70 kids now living at the Barlad facility AND HUNDREDS of children within the next few years. While this project will greatly improve the current quality of life and bring joy, the long term impact is the positive emotional, physical and intellectual development of these children. With the playground being accessible, the long-term health of the children will be improved.
