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Programs & Research

Programs & Research

Recreation Planning Resources & Research

Better recreation spaces start with better information.

We help schools, parks, churches, housing communities, and organizations across Michigan and Indiana make more informed decisions through research-backed recreation resources, planning tools, and educational programs designed to support stronger outcomes.

Whether you're planning a playground, designing an inclusive space, improving physical activity opportunities, or exploring new recreation ideas, we provide resources that help projects move forward with confidence.

Smarter Recreation Spaces Start with Better Planning

Creating successful recreation spaces takes more than choosing products — it takes thoughtful planning, best practices, and a deeper understanding of how people play, move, learn, and connect.

At Sinclair Recreation, we help communities make informed decisions through research-informed recreation planning resources developed in partnership with leading experts in play, inclusion, child development, health, and outdoor wellness.

Research-Informed Planning

Explore best practices designed to support stronger recreation outcomes.

Inclusive Design Guidance

Learn how thoughtful recreation spaces can better serve people of all ages and abilities.

Support for Health & Wellness

Explore resources focused on movement, outdoor activity, and community wellness.

Educational Programs & Training

Access recreation-focused learning opportunities that support planning and professional development.

Stronger Funding & Stakeholder Support

Use research-backed planning to help communicate value and build confidence in projects.

Recreation Expertise You Can Trust

Helping communities across Michigan and Indiana plan recreation spaces with confidence.

How Research Supports Better Recreation Spaces

Every recreation project starts with understanding who the space serves and what outcomes matter most.
Research, planning guides, and educational resources help shape smarter decisions around play, inclusion, wellness, and design.
Thoughtful recreation planning helps create environments that better support movement, engagement, accessibility, and community use.
The result is a recreation space informed by best practices and designed for long-term success.

Download the Playground Planning Guide

Planning a playground or recreation space?

Download our free guide to explore budgeting, surfacing, accessibility, timelines, planning considerations, and helpful next steps for moving your project forward.

Download Now

They are very knowledgeable and patient as they guide you through every step before the playground is constructed… I would highly recommend this company to anyone who is building a playground. They really care and love what they do.

- Dianna Mertz , Community Partner

Why Organizations Trust Sinclair Recreation

At Sinclair Recreation, we believe great recreation spaces are built through thoughtful planning, not guesswork. That’s why we help organizations access research-informed tools, resources, and educational guidance designed to support smarter decisions and stronger long-term outcomes.

Research-backed planning resources designed to support stronger outcomes
Recreation expertise informed by decades of experience
Educational tools focused on inclusion, wellness, and play
Local support serving communities across Michigan and Indiana

Frequently Asked Questions

We provide access to planning guides, educational resources, best practices, and recreation-focused tools designed to support stronger project outcomes.
Many recreation planning resources and educational materials are available at no cost.
Yes. We offer guidance related to inclusive play, accessibility, sensory engagement, and designing recreation spaces for people of all abilities.
Absolutely. Research-backed planning can help strengthen presentations, funding requests, stakeholder conversations, and project confidence.
Yes. Sinclair Recreation primarily serves schools, parks, churches, and organizations throughout Michigan and Indiana.

Research-Informed Spaces Brought to Life

Explore playgrounds, parks, inclusive recreation environments, and outdoor spaces designed to support stronger community outcomes across Michigan and Indiana.