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On June 8, The Children’s Institute opened CI Outdoors: Therapy & Learning Center. This fully accessible playground brings together education, rehabilitation, and behavioral health services for children and youth ages 2 to 21 who are served at the Institute.

The new space reimagines the traditional playground by including clinical, educational, and developmental skills-building learned across The Day School, outpatient therapy services including physical, occupational, and speech therapies, Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), and Family Support Services.
 

“One of the things that makes The Children’s Institute so remarkable and life-changing for the students it serves is its commitment to meeting our kids’ unique needs. This space is a testament to that commitment. The team responsible for this beautiful and innovative Outdoor Therapy & Learning Center understood that our children need a creative, inclusive, and safe outdoor space to learn, play, and grow, and they brought it to life.”

– Sara F., parent of a Day School student

 

CI Outdoors engages children and young adults of all abilities with ADA-compliant features like stepping stones, a rock-climbing structure, a sport court, and a walking track. These elements promote motor skills, balance, and cognitive and social development while having fun outdoors.

The project was made possible by a $3 million investment raised by community donors.

Media coverage:

The Children's Institute opens new accessible playground (Pittsburgh Business Times)

Accessible playground opens at The Children's Institute of Pittsburgh (WTAE-TV)

Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh opens new playground (WPXI) 

 

100.1 FM and AM 1020 KDKA: Dr. Vidal-Phelan on CI Outdoors: Therapy & Learning Center