Threshold lowering tool

The board with pictograms and words helps children for whom verbal communication or speaking the Dutch language is not natural, play together and interact with their peers more easily. Removing the speech or language barrier helps children participate fully. For example, the board makes it possible to ask if someone wants to join the swing or play tag. 

Alderman Mathil Sanders: "In Geldrop-Mierlo we think it is important that everyone can participate. With the pictogram board we ensure that children are introduced early to our inclusive society."

The playground sign was requested by Celine Pessers, client supervisor at Lunetzorg on the Stationsstraat in Geldrop. Celine indicates that she finds outdoor play for these children extremely important, but that not all playgrounds fit their target group. After trying playgrounds in the area, she found the one at the Mezekouw to be the most suitable. With good weather, they can be found there weekly with their children. The children also learn to communicate with these pictograms. Hence, this sign is a nice addition to this playground. 

Third playground sign

The sign in the playground at the Mezekouw is already the third pictogram sign in the municipality of Geldrop-Mierlo . Earlier signs were placed at playground the Viking and the playground at the Laan van Tolkien. The experiences at these two places are good. Also children who are not in the target group of the board know how to find the board and use it to learn words together during outdoor play. 

Accessible playgrounds

Residents who would also like a playground sign in the playground in their neighborhood can contact Kelly Vlieks, inclusion policy officer, at k.vlieks@geldrop-mierlo.nl.