Preston's H.O.P.E.

The inspiration for Preston's H.O.P.E. (Helping Others Play and Enjoy) playground (www.prestonshope.com)came from the family and friends of a little boy with Spinal Muscular Atrophy who dreamed of a place where he could safely play with his siblings and friends. After finding out that there were over 26,000 children in their county with some type of disability they raised over $3 million to create this innovative playground that is accessible to everyone. The 60,000 square foot outdoor play facility is a place where you can get up high, feel movement, listen to sounds, dig in the sand, pretend, or just sit and be quiet if you want to.

During our visit to the playground on Sunday, Grace had her first experience with going down many different slides almost alone. Kyle and I were each at the top and bottom to guide and catch her. She played on the swings, climbed up different jungle gyms (again, with help), and practiced her walking on a variety of different surfaces.


Sometimes she fell down, but she got right back up and kept walking. I think that is one of the ways I know she is really walking now...when she falls she chooses to get up and walk again instead of crawling. She looks a lot like a drunk monster with her legs spread wide, her butt sticking out, and her arms up for balance, but somehow that method works for her!

It is amazing to watch Grace discover new things that we take for granted. I could watch her all day. I wish I could say "sit and watch her" but really, there is no sitting involved.

When Grace looks at something like this clear dome she is seeing it for the first time and trying to figure it out. When she first put her head in here, she was a little afraid, but with encouragement, she tried again and quickly thought it was pretty cool.

Another thing Grace enjoys is riding all the different cars and animals meant for that purpose. She is a little too brave about getting out/off, though, if you ask me!













(PS - Kyle says the last picture is for Big Daddy!)