LATIS Forum on Therapeutic Gardens - Natural Learning Initiative

Provide settings where special events/entertainment can be held or staged.Consider the possibilities for creating programs of special events and entertainment for children and theirfamilies—birthday parties and fund-raising events for example. A modest, multipurpose amphitheater canbe an appropriate solution if space is available. Alternatively, an area in the garden can be designed to beconverted into a temporary stage/presentation setting. Whether temporary or permanent, the spaceshould be designed to support theatrical accoutrements such as backdrops and wings. Performanceareas should be orientated facing the sun for good illumination. The sun should be behind the audience,who should be protected by permanent or temporary shade.Figure 11. The articulated shape of the paved area in this therapeutic garden provides a larger space forcommunity gatherings and special events adjacent to the building. (Photo: Courtesy, Lucas GardensSchool)10. Accommodation of Children’s Special NeedsDesign gardens to include children with a wide range of special needs.In medical or special education facilities, children may have special needs if they are postoperative,oncology, and psychiatric patients; children with emotional, learning, physical, sensory, anddevelopmental impairments—temporary or permanent; or long-term resident patients. These examplesshould be used as a basis for discussion with staff about the functional requirements to beaccommodated.43