Children have an innate sense of curiosity and play is the means by which they learn about the world around them. In addition to formal play spaces and activities, the built environment and how it fosters informal, free play is critical for children’s development, health, and well-being.

Children today have less freedom than previous generations and spend more time indoors, often due to parent’s perceptions of safety. Some parents try to overcompensate by enrolling their children in organized activities, and while these programs have a great deal of value, they can also lead to over-programmed and stressed out kids.

As they grow, children begin to explore areas around their homes and neighbourhoods, starting with the common areas of multi-unit dwellings, local streets, nearby parks, and informal play areas (such as parking lots). Making areas close to home where child and youth can play is important for their development and helps to build their confidence, creativity, social skills, problem solving skills, and independence in a safe and stimulating environment.

Youth often feel that they are not welcome in public space or have no spaces to call their own. Providing spaces for older children where they can play or socialize is also important for their development and provides them with a sense of belonging.

Creating well-designed neighbourhoods and built environments can help foster children and youth’s ability to play, be physically active, develop critical skills, and can help allay parent’s fears around safety.