The newly opened inclusive playground at Georgia Ave. Elementary is helping students come together and learn from one another. (submitted/Dan Dawes)

By Spencer Sterritt

play for all

Inclusive playground opens for Georgia Ave. Elementary students

Dec 21, 2019 | 10:51 PM

NANAIMO — Students at Ave. Elementary who struggle with making friends and socializing now have more chances to bond with their classmates.

An inclusive playground at the south Nanaimo school recently opened, with ramps for students who use wheelchairs and equipment which can be used by anyone.

The playground is especially important for students in the Life Skills program, which teaches them how to properly handle adversity and manage their behaviours.

Life Skills teacher Daniel Dawes said his students grapple with significant issues which make it difficult to form lasting bonds with other students.

“It’s so hard for these children to make eye contact and make those friendships. It’s important to get them out in their social groups, in with all the children playing.”

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In the brief amount of time since the inclusive playground opened, Dawes said he’s seen a major shift in many of his students.

“I’ve seen them approach other children, getting closer instead of being parallel. They’re actually making social interactions with other students in the school.”

More than $100,000 from the province was provided to bring plans for the inclusive playground to fruition.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit