Adam's Adventure
Located at Cross Farms Recreation Area, 167 Rhodes Rd, Tolland, CT 06084
Adam’s Adventure is a playground where children of all abilities can play freely! It is a place where there are no limitations and where there is something for everyone. Adam’s Adventure is designed to accommodate not only Mobility Impairments, but also Auditory Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Cognitive Impairments, Visual Disabilities and more. Whether they wish to swing, to climb, to play music, or just need a quiet place to rest, the children will find it there. It is A Playground for EVERYONE!
Grown-ups too - This playground is designed not only to benefit children, but also the adults in their lives; the young mother who has just been diagnosed with MS, the wounded soldier returning from war, the grandparents who are unsteady on their feet…
The Autism Spectrum - Our playground provides all the elements needed for all children with special needs, with a special emphasis on equipment that will be beneficial to children who are on the autism spectrum. Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S. It now affects 1 in 88 children and 1 in 54 boys. More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined. We are happy to provide a place where they can play in their own way, where their parents can relax and enjoy them.
The Inspiration - The idea for this playground was inspired by Adam Mlodzinski. At age 7 Adam was a healthy active little boy, a rising soccer star who could not be distracted by television or video games. When he wasn’t playing soccer he could be found outside playing on the swings or exploring the woods with his sisters.
On November 2, 2009 Adam was stricken suddenly with Bacterial Meningitis triggered by an ear infection that caused his ear drum to burst. He was flown by Life Star to Hartford Children’s Hospital where he remained in a coma for several months. He then faced several months of physical therapy to learn how to walk, talk and eat all over again. While Adam survived the ordeal, the disease left him completely blind with cognitive impairments and a seizure disorder. Despite his challenges, Adam is a fighter and he continues to beat the odds every single day!
The Idea - Throughout Adam’s ordeal the community came together to support Adam’s family. Friends, acquaintances and complete strangers provided meals, gift cards, monetary donations, Christmas gifts and more. When Adam was finally released from the hospital, the community wanted to continue to support the family. When asked what they could do to help, Adam’s mother pointed out that there are so many families in Tolland and its surrounding towns who have children with special needs. ”There are no playgrounds in our area that meet the needs of these children” she said, and suggested that efforts be put into building a playground for these children. The idea for Adam’s Adventure was born!