This research investigates the effects of gardening and interaction with plants in the development of children's intellectual and developmental skills, specifically inclusive of children with cognitive and/or physical disabilities. The project dives further into the inclusivity of accessible features for children in playground and naturescape design. Drawing inspiration from Ballam Bumps, Arlitt Children’s Garden, and Els Sensory Art Garden; it is important to understand the value of high-intensity areas and low-intensity areas, as well as design that is versatile to a broad spectrum of ages. Children should form these relationships with plants from an early age, and the proposed design reflects the different learning styles/abilities of children with differing sensory needs. All of the listed elements are incorporated and considered when redesigning the Boone County Arboretum’s Children’s Garden, and shown through a series of designs, inventory & analysis.
This research investigates the effects of gardening and interaction with plants in the development of children's intellectual and developmental skills, specifically inclusive of children with cognitive and/or physical disabilities. The project dives further into the inclusivity of accessible features for children in playground and naturescape design. Drawing inspiration from Ballam Bumps, Arlitt Children’s Garden, and Els Sensory Art Garden; it is important to understand the value of high-intensity areas and low-intensity areas, as well as design that is versatile to a broad spectrum of ages. Children should form these relationships with plants from an early age, and the proposed design reflects the different learning styles/abilities of children with differing sensory needs. All of the listed elements are incorporated and considered when redesigning the Boone County Arboretum’s Children’s Garden, and shown through a series of designs, inventory & analysis.