Connecticut Radio Information System

The original Jonathan’s Dream, inspired by the Barzach family of West Hartford and built-in 1996 as the first Boundless Playground, created an inclusive, accessible play space for families and children of all abilities. The new Jonathan’s Dream extends this legacy with an engaging playground that keeps children of all ages and abilities active and moving.

CRIS Solution

Among the goals for the new Jonathan’s Dream Park was to expand and improve accessibility for all abilities of children and their families – including those who are blind or have low vision. A local civics group – the Greater Hartford Host Lions Club – shared this goal and became committed partners, helping to raise funds towards the cost of developing the CRISAccess Mobile App. The app helps children and their families with visual impairments learn more about the playground equipment when they either scan a QR Code sign displayed on the equipment with their smartphone, or when they (with their smartphone) get near the equipment, the app’s GPS functionality automatically triggers the audio description of the playground equipment.

“We are all so grateful for all the hard work of everybody – CRIS Radio, IDEAL Group, and the Greater Hartford Host Lions Club - involved in creating this mobile app. The app brings a new level of accessibility to Jonathan’s Dream. Now children and adults with visual impairment can enjoy navigating the playground alongside their visually-able peers.”
~ Ronit Shoham, Jonathan’s Dream Coordinator