Officials Cut Ribbon On Autistic Support Playground In Upper Darby

UPPER DARBY, Pa. (CBS) -- A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Monday for a playground in Upper Darby, Delaware County designed for children with autism.

Kelly Colvin is the mother of a child in the autistic support program at Upper Darby's Primos Elementary School.

"It really just makes my heart happy that these children can have an actual play experience," she said.

Colvin worked with elected officials to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to build the playground, designed for the 50 children in the school's autistic support program. For example, mulch which can be irritating to children with autism, is replaced with a rubber mat, swings with restraints, and climbing equipment designed for children.

"The teachers were telling me some stories," Colvin said. "One child went right to the climbing apparatus, his poor upper body strength, they were a little worried about him, but he climbed right to the top and had a huge smile on his face."

Colvin says it's a benefit to teachers, as well, as the playtime can calm the children and it help prepare them for lessons.

In:
• Upper Darby
• KYW Newsradio
• Delaware County
• Autism