About PLAE

Through its programs, education, and research, PLAE supports the integration of accessible, inclusive outdoor play opportunities into human environments as an essential component of health, creativity, and innovation for all ages.

PLAE was founded in 1982 by Robin Moore, Susan Goltsman, and Daniel Iacofano, growing out of the groundbreaking schoolyard project in Berkeley that launched a national conversation about how designed environments shape human development. Over the following four decades, that initial vision expanded into a sustained research and advocacy effort—examining how play area design influences behavior, social connection, and environmental stewardship across all ages and abilities.

Building the Field

In 1985, PLAE convened the “Play for All Conference,” partially funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, to establish guidelines for the design of truly inclusive play environments—spaces designed for all children of all abilities. The result was Play for All Design Guidelines, which became a definitive reference in the field and remains among PLAE’s best-known publications.

In 1990, PLAE brought national experts together at Stanford University for “The Playful City” —a forum exploring how play fosters social connection and well-being beyond childhood, and how entire cities can be designed with that in mind.

Since then, PLAE has conducted, supported, and funded research across the full spectrum of environmental design, including integrated play environments, accessibility and universal design, outdoor recreation, inclusive city-building, and the design of streets.

Susan Goltsman, Founder (1949–2016)

Susan Goltsman was an internationally recognized expert in designing and programming inclusive environments for children and families. Her original research and design approach forged new relationships between people and the environments they inhabit, and she advocated tirelessly for spaces that promote social equity and contribute to healthy human development.

Susan taught at UC Berkeley, Stanford, and San Francisco State; authored numerous acclaimed books; and received many prestigious awards. She mentored generations of young designers and planners, advised government agencies at every level, and helped build inclusive communities around the world.
Susan passed away in 2016, but her vision remains the foundation on which PLAE continues to build.