The Little Light House in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is internationally recognized for its exceptional early intervention services and individualized education for children with special needs from birth to age six. As a tuition-free Christian developmental center, Little Light House operates through the support of generous individuals, organizations, and community partners, empowering a team of over 90 staff to serve more than 300 children and families each year.
Little Light House recently unveiled the Sarah A. Harmon Splash Pad, named in memory of a beloved intern from the center’s therapy department who specialized in Speech-Language Pathology. Sarah’s passion was serving children with special needs, and her favorite activity at Little Light House was “Water Day”, a joyful, group-based outdoor aquatic play experience. The splash pad stands as a tribute to her legacy, bringing that same aquatic play expereince to life every day for the students at Little Light House.
Spanning 2,179 square feet, the splash pad features an immersive Noah’s Ark theme, selected by staff as their favorite story from the curriculum. The splash pad blends essential and themed aquatic play elements to create a dynamic, multi-sensory environment that is both engaging and accessible. Themed play elements include a custom Noah’s Ark Aqua Slide, which serves as the centerpiece of the splash pad, bringing the biblical story to life. The water slide is designed to resemble a vibrant ship sailing across the seas, with a lively collection of spritely zoo animals aboard. Children can spot spraying zebras, giraffes, lions, elephants, and tropical birds perched along the boat, each rendered with playful expressions and bold colors to spark imagination and wonder.
A collection of whimsical, animal-themed Aqua Spouts, including Harry Hippo, Gracie Gator, and Tommy Sea Turtle, provides soft spray effects with fun theming. The Dolphin Duo Aqua Sprayer gives the illusion of playful dolphins jumping through the water, further setting the scene. Two Little Sqwerts™ Spin N’ Spray Fish positioned at opposite ends of the splash pad add an element of interactive aquatic play for smaller children. Paired with various ground sprays including the Water Weave, Splash-O-Lator, and Cloud 9, these aquatic play features offer a range of water effects, from gentle sprays to playful bursts, catering to children with varying sensory preferences and abilities.
The splash pad design is rooted in inclusivity, providing a fun water play area where children with disabilities can play alongside their peers. With no standing water and a variety of spray features at multiple heights and intensities, this splash pads design provides one of the most accessible forms of aquatic play. By incorporating sensory bays with soft sprays, low-profile sprayers, and interactive features like water slides and interactive sprayers, the Sarah A. Harmon Splash Pad ensures that every child can find joy in aquatic play, regardless of ability.
This project stands as a powerful example of how thoughtful design, community support, and a shared mission can come together to create an impactful, inclusive space for play, healing, and celebration.
