Community Corner

All-Inclusive Brendan's Playground Hosting First Play Day on Saturday

The O'Fallon playground opened in October 2011 and was named after 9-year-old Brendan Schmitt, a Westhoff Elementary School student who suffers from Thompson Syndrome.

Full-disclosure: O'Fallon Patch Editor Jordan Lanham serves on the board of Unlimited Play Young Professionals. 

Families are invited to a play date in the park on Saturday. 

Unlimited Play Inc., is hosting one of its first "play dates for all" at the all-inclusive Brendan's Playground at Westhoff Park. 

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The non-profit that got its start with the dream of one O'Fallon mom now helps communities across the country to build playgrounds that are accessible for children with and without disabilities. 

The O'Fallon playground opened in October 2011 and was named after 9-year-old Brendan Schmitt, a Westhoff Elementary School student who suffers from Thompson Syndrome, a rare genetic disease that makes it difficult for him to use traditional playground equipment.

Find out what's happening in O'Fallonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The nature-themed playground features ADA-accessible ramps connecting nearly all areas, a variety of climbing structures, steel slides that are suitable for children with cochlear implants (because the slides do not generate static electricity), a variety of swings so that children of different ages and abilities can swing together and a set of large of instruments.

Children ages 5 to 12 are welcome to play from 10 a.m. to noon at the park located at 699 Sheppard Dr.

The event is free and snacks and drinks will be available. Buddies are provided for children with special needs. Children will participate in a craft activity and the Adrenaline Cheer Squad will provide the entertainment.

A parent or caregiver must remain on site while the child plays. Anyone interested in attending must RSVP by Thursday by calling Unlimited Play at 636-449-1770. 


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