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Optimizing Urban Children’s Outdoor Play Spaces: Affordances, Supervision, and Design Dynamics

Author

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  • Pai Tang

    (College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China)

  • Helen Woolley

    (Department of Landscape Architecture, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TL, UK)

Abstract

This research explores how outdoor spaces play a crucial role in providing urban children with opportunities for physical activity and relaxation, together with the supervision of the children’s outdoor activities, particularly in densely populated areas with limited open spaces. Effective design of such spaces is vital for creating functional recreational areas within urban landscapes. Drawing from ecological perceptual psychology’s theory of affordance, this research examines the positive attributes of environmental affordances, specifically in Beijing’s central area. Using a children’s park as a case study, systematic observations are conducted to understand the park’s potential for diverse play opportunities and facilitating social interactions across age groups. However, the results reveal that the children’s park falls short of realizing its affordances fully, restricting available play opportunities. Specific play activities require distinct spatial arrangements influenced by children’s ages. Maternal supervision significantly affects children’s play experiences. The study also highlights grandparent involvement in overseeing children’s outdoor play, revealing differing supervision styles. In conclusion, while fixed play equipment and rubber carpet ground enhance engagement and safety, realizing the complete potential of children’s outdoor play spaces demands more inclusive design. The research underscores the intricate interplay between environmental affordances, adult supervision patterns, and children’s play experiences, paving the way for further exploration of these dynamic relationships, and contribute to build environmentally and socially sustainable urban environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Pai Tang & Helen Woolley, 2023. "Optimizing Urban Children’s Outdoor Play Spaces: Affordances, Supervision, and Design Dynamics," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(20), pages 1-12, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:20:p:14661-:d:1256420
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Deborah A. Cohen & Meghan Talarowski & Bing Han & Stephanie Williamson & Emily Galfond & Deborah R. Young & Sarah Eng & Thomas L. McKenzie, 2023. "Playground Design: Contribution to Duration of Stay and Implications for Physical Activity," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(5), pages 1-11, March.
    2. Helen Woolley & Alison Lowe, 2013. "Exploring the Relationship between Design Approach and Play Value of Outdoor Play Spaces," Landscape Research, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 38(1), pages 53-74, February.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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