By Lynette Cox
Bernheim Unveils New Wheelchair Accessible Treehouse for All to Enjoy
Celebration of Play being held on October 4
Bernheim Forest and Arboretum is thrilled to announce the unveiling of a new wheelchair accessible treehouse, opening up a world of natural wonder and adventure for visitors of all abilities. Bernheim will mark the occasion by hosting a Celebration of Play on Saturday, October 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This fun, family-friendly event will include an opening ceremony and supporter recognition, followed by fun activities for families and children of all ages.
“This exciting new addition to Playcosystem is part of Bernheim’s on-going commitment to inclusivity and providing equal access to nature for everyone,” explained Claude Stephens, Director of the Children at Play Network (CAPN) at Bernheim. “Visitors of all ages can now embark on an unforgettable adventure as they explore the wonders of the forest from a new perspective.”
Taking advantage of topography and ramping, the treehouse gradually allows a wheelchair user to end up fifteen feet above the ground in an enchanting play structure. Now, individuals with mobility challenges can experience the magic of being up in a treehouse. Nestled within the Exploration Zone of Playcosystem, this innovative structure offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with nature in a truly immersive and fun way.
Guests to Playcosystem will also notice accessible pathways, picnic tables, and play features, including a sandbox and a water pump, have been added to this unique play area.
“By ensuring pathways are wide, even, and free of obstacles, we have created a safer and more user-friendly experience for wheelchair users, families with strollers, and individuals with other mobility aids,” added Jenny Gardner, CAPN Play Environments Manager. “The new picnic tables offer individuals using wheelchairs the opportunity to fully engage in outdoor activities and social gatherings.”
Bernheim’s Children at Play Network (CAPN) has planned fun and engaging activities for the Celebration of Play, including:
- Free Play Saturday, presented by Aetna Better Health of Kentucky
- Art-making activities
- Free play opportunities throughout Playcosystem
Special guests at the event will include Rhythm Science Sound, a Louisville-based collective of music producers, deejays, and music tech educators. They will be presenting DJ sets, interactive music-making, and Biodata Sonification demonstrations (music created from plants).
Many of these additions to Playcosystem were made possible by a grant awarded in 2021 from the James Graham Brown Foundation along with generous support from others.
Join Bernheim Forest and Arboretum on October 4 to celebrate the opening of the new treehouse, an incredible addition that promises to inspire and delight visitors for years to come. Discover the magic of nature from new heights and embrace the opportunity for inclusive adventures in the heart of Bernheim’s stunning landscape. For more information on Celebration of Play, visit Bernheim.org/events.
About Children at Play Network
Launched in 2017, the Children at Play Network (CAPN) is a Bernheim initiative that works at the community level to advocate for free play in the outdoors so that every child has a place in nature where they feel safe, healthy, empowered, and joyful. Learn more at childrenatplaynetwork.com.
