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Research has shown that natural play spaces, with integrated natural elements such as trees, plants, rocks, and water, offer numerous benefits for children and communities. These spaces are designed to attract diverse users and offer a wide range of play opportunities that go beyond physical play, promoting inclusivity.
However, these spaces are often less accessible to marginalized communities and children with disabilities.
In this brief, we present key findings from a study that investigated natural playgrounds in Calgary, Canada, focusing on access, equity, and inclusivity. The researchers conducted walking/playing and online interviews with 51 participants, including children, caregivers, playground designers, and municipal workers.
The study focused on exploring barriers and challenges in the development and usage of natural play spaces.
These findings are relevant for urban, park, city, and playground planners and architects, particularly those involved in the design and development of public spaces. It may also be relevant for those involved in decision-making processes related to urban development and public spaces that promote equity and inclusivity.
(Trudeau, 2024, p. 3)
The study found several challenges in ensuring equitable development and accessible usage of these types of play spaces:
Natural playgrounds serve as ‘integrational spaces’, attracting not only children but also caregivers, adolescents, and adults. Although most participants reported positive experiences with shared playground usage, issues like vandalism and conflicting use patterns were also mentioned.
There are challenges in ensuring equitable development and accessible use for marginalized communities and individuals with disabilities. Physical accessibility is a major concern as ground surface materials (e.g., loose rocks and sand) and playground layout can be barriers for those with disabilities.
High costs for the development and maintenance of natural playgrounds and reliance on community funding can limit the creation of such spaces.
The study highlights that community funding, grants, and volunteer work, often performed by stay-at-home parents with specific skills, are essential in creating and supporting natural play spaces.
Consider different needs and contexts: The study suggests that there is a need for careful consideration of different needs and contexts to create more inclusive and accessible natural playgrounds.
Support: It is suggested that municipal and non-profit support, maintenance funding, and participatory planning with diverse members of the community are crucial for equitable playground development.
Focus on the balance between risky play versus physical accessibility: The study recommends a balance between different playground features to accommodate different needs.
All our briefs are accessible through our website, www.playgroundresearch.org.
On the website, you’ll find a compilation of briefs that offer a clear comprehension of research findings and their implications for future research and practical application.
You can also download a printable PDF version of this brief to facilitate sharing.
