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Innovative design meets universal access in new outdoor space for learning and playing

PITTSBURGH – In a bold step toward continuing to provide best-in-class care, The Children’s Institute announces plans for a multimillion-dollar transformation of its outdoor playground into a state-of-the-art learning and recreational environment for children of all abilities.

The renovation of the site will significantly enhance the campus experience for thousands of children and young adults with unique abilities and sensory needs. Thanks to the generous support garnered through ongoing fundraising, the extensive upgrades will expand the Institute’s reach and impact by supporting multiple programs and providing a variety of therapeutic sensory and physical experiences for individuals aged 2 to 21.

More than 20 years ago, the Children's Institute created one of the first ADA-accessible playgrounds in Pittsburgh, and it was primarily used by students at The Day School. The new design will allow children and families within The Children’s Institute’s autism, physical health, behavioral health, and family support services to utilize the space simultaneously.

"This innovative learning space marks a significant step forward in our 123-year mission to provide best-in-class care," said Barry Shepard, interim CEO of The Children's Institute. "Our team of highly skilled professionals helps children of all abilities participate in activities every child wants to experience. As pioneers in creating one of Pittsburgh’s first accessible play areas, we remain committed to providing exceptional and accessible facilities for the children, families, and communities we serve.”


Community partners and other organizations will also have opportunities to benefit from the feature-rich outdoor learning environment.

“At Friendship Circle, we are guided by the belief that every individual, regardless of ability, deserves connection, joy, and a true sense of belonging,” said Rabbi Mordy Rudolph, Executive Director of Friendship Circle of Pittsburgh. “The Children’s Institute’s new ADA-accessible space is poised to be a beautiful expression of those values. We’re honored to support this inclusive space, which reflects the heart of our community and the power of building environments where all children can thrive. We look forward to continued collaboration, using this space as a platform for socialization, growth, and shared celebration.”

The Children's Institute has partnered with Pashek + MTR, an award-winning landscape architecture firm with over 35 years of experience in designing outdoor and learning spaces. This multi-phase development project began with research to understand the needs of those served and to gather feedback from the Institute's experts. A full site analysis, along with conceptual designs and a rendered schematic site plan, helped visualize the transformation.


To bring this vision to life, the outdoor area and grounds will undergo extensive renovations that adhere to ADA standards. This project will involve removing the current play area and resolving terrain challenges. A new foundation will be constructed, along with age-appropriate play zones featuring custom equipment to provide engaging sensory experiences.
 

While play is essential to each child’s development, this new space will do much more than provide children with a place to play. They will have a variety of movement, climbing, visual, tactile, and audio experiences available to them. Their balance, flexibility, coordination, and fine motor skills will also be engaged with custom, ADA-approved elements such as stepping stones, a rock climbing structure, sport court, walking track, and more.

Renovations are scheduled to begin this summer with updates to follow on a community ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for spring 2026.

About The Children’s Institute
For more than 120 years, The Children’s Institute has served the complex needs of children and young adults, and their families, to help them reach their full potential and lead their best lives. Programs include The Day School, early intervention services, family support services, and outpatient therapies. The Children’s Institute is an independent, licensed nonprofit organization, helping nearly 7,000 children and families yearly in seven counties across Western Pennsylvania. Connect with us by visiting AmazingKids.org or calling 412.420.2400.