Lelum’uy’lh Daycare Centre

Duncan, B.C.

Created in partnership with Cowichan Tribes, the playground at Lelum’uy’lh Childcare was thoughtfully designed to support the developmental needs of young children through inclusive, nature-inspired play while celebrating local culture and language. The result is a welcoming outdoor environment where children can play, learn, and connect with the land, community, and each other.

primary coloured playground on grass
Designed specifically for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, the playground features dedicated play areas for different age groups, ensuring children can engage in developmentally appropriate play experiences as they grow. Opportunities for climbing, balancing, sensory exploration, imaginative play, music, and social interaction encourage physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development.

A defining feature of the playground is the integration of Hul’q’umi’num’ language throughout the play space. Custom play elements transform everyday play into opportunities for cultural learning and language discovery. The inclusive We-Go-Round features bird illustrations accompanied by their Hul’q’umi’num’ names, while custom DigiFuse panels throughout the playground introduce children to local animals and insects through both imagery and language. Within the Smart Play Market, fruit and vegetable panels display their corresponding Hul’q’umi’num’ names, creating playful opportunities for vocabulary development and cultural connection. These features help reinforce language and identity while making learning a natural part of the play experience.

primary coloured playground on grass
Accessibility and inclusion were central considerations throughout the design. Accessible surfacing, ground-level activities, sensory-rich play experiences, and equipment that supports a wide range of abilities help create an environment where more children can participate together. Interactive panels, musical instruments, and imaginative play opportunities encourage collaboration, communication, and exploration for all users.

The playground is surfaced with Rymar synthetic turf, providing a durable and accessible surface that supports year-round use. Multiple shade structures create comfortable gathering and play spaces, helping children and caregivers stay protected from the elements while enjoying the outdoors.

Natural play experiences further enrich the space through elements such as covered sand play areas, mud kitchens, cedar seating, and nature-inspired climbing and exploration features. These components encourage sensory exploration, creativity, and open-ended play while fostering a strong connection to the natural environment.

yellow cedar sandboxes
More than just a playground, the outdoor environment at Lelum’uy’lh Childcare serves as a place where children can build confidence, develop new skills, and strengthen their connection to culture and community. Through inclusive design, age-appropriate play opportunities, and the meaningful integration of Hul’q’umi’num’ language, the project creates a vibrant space that supports learning, belonging, and joyful childhood experiences.

 

Explore the full list of components:

  • Landscape Structures PlayBooster Structure featuring:
    • Gemini Slide
    • Belt Bridge
    • Tree Stump Transfer Module
    • Rain Sound Panel
    • Treehouse Roof
    • Gemini SlideWinder2
  • Landscape Structures PlayShaper Structure featuring:
    • Critter Canyon Climber
    • Chimes Panel
    • Digifuse Panel
    • Hourglass Panel
    • Marble Panel
    • Mirror Panel
    • Rain Sound Wheel Panel
    • Sign Language Panel
    • Treehouse Roof
    • Infant Slide
    • Crawl Tunnel
  • Smart Play: Loft and Market Cafe with Custom Language panels
  • Smart Play: Nook
  • Habitat Natural Play 6′ Yellow Cedar Benches
  • Habitat Natural Play 8′ x 9′ Covered Sandboxes with Covers
  • Habitat Natural Play 5′ Mud Kitchens
  • Hillside Rope Pull Climber
  • Hillside Rollerslide
  • We-Go-Round
  • Single Post Swings with Full and Molded Bucket Seats
  • Cozy Dome
  • Mushroom Steppers
  • Custom Digifuse Panels
  • Digirider Bear
  • Saddle Spinner
  • Log Crawl Tunnel
  • Pod Climber
  • Rhapsody Ditty Metallophone
  • Rhapsody Goblet Drum Junior
  • Rhapsody Kettle Drum Junior
  • Rhapsody Kundu Drum Junior
  • Rhapsody Tongue Drum Junior
  • Rhapsody Warble Chimes
  • SkyWays Hip 24’x24′ Shade
  • Skyways Cantilever 20’36’ Shade
  • SkyWays Cantilever Single Post Pyramid
  • SkyWays Hip 18’x18′ Shade
  • Rymar Playground Grass

Details

Address

5588 River Rd
Duncan BC

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