How Child-Friendly Urban Planning Can Transform Cities

How Child-Friendly Urban Planning Can Transform Cities

I recently came across an insightful document titled Urban Playground by Tim Gill , which explores how child-friendly urban planning and design can save our cities. Here are some key takeaways that resonated with me:

1️⃣ Children as Indicators of Urban Health:

Just as salmon indicate the health of a river, the presence of children in public spaces reflects the quality of urban environments. Cities that prioritize children’s needs—safe streets, green spaces, and accessible play areas—create better environments for everyone.

2️⃣ The Shrinking “Right to Roam:

Over the past few generations, children’s freedom to explore their neighborhoods has drastically decreased. Urban planning that prioritizes cars over people has contributed to this decline, limiting children’s independence and physical activity.

3️⃣ The Role of Play in Urban Design:

Play isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential for children’s development. Cities like Rotterdam and Barcelona are leading the way by integrating playful, accessible public spaces into their urban fabric, proving that child-friendly design benefits all residents.

4️⃣ The Global Challenge:

With 60% of the world’s children expected to live in cities by 2025, the need for child-friendly urban planning has never been more urgent. From reducing air pollution to creating walkable neighborhoods, the solutions are within reach—if we prioritize children in our planning processes.

Source:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/umair-khan-01a583268_urban-playground-activity-7301949297300795393–wdC/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAtGGkQBsxwMBmX3lEJO8btihnfBCaHqTz4