A framework for child-friendly urban green spaces in Shanghai: Insights from children’s perspectives / Niu Yunlong

Niu , Yunlong (2025) A framework for child-friendly urban green spaces in Shanghai: Insights from children’s perspectives / Niu Yunlong. PhD thesis, Universiti Malaya.

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Abstract

Children’s activities in urban green space (UGS) are their primary means of connecting with nature and a crucial way to form lasting environmental bonds and promote their physical and mental development. Unfortunately, adults often overlook the importance of UGS in encouraging children’s outdoor activities, resulting in many such spaces’ planning and design failing to truly reflect considerations of children’s needs and desires. Against this backdrop, this study explores the various factors affecting children’s behavior patterns and affordances in UGS and attempts to reveal how these factors correlate with children’s expectations for an ideal child-friendly UGS. This study was conducted across three UGS (Xujiahui Park, Guilin Garden, and Houtan Riverside) in Shanghai, China. The research framework employs phenomenological methodology, utilizing multiple data collection instruments, including go-along interviews (n=30), behavioral mapping observations (n=30), and participatory drawings (n=108), to examine children's perceptual experiences and behavioral patterns within these environments. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis methods. The findings reveal the diversity and complexity of children’s behaviors in UGS. Children’s activity choices and site usage preferences are significantly influenced by the green space’s (1) Accessibility, (2) Aesthetics, (3) Activities, (4) Safety, and (5) Amenities. Specifically, children prefer UGS with abundant vegetation, safe facilities, and exciting play equipment. Additionally, the study found that children have clear visual and functional expectations for an ideal child-friendly UGS. They wish these places to meet their play and exercise needs and provide comfortable spaces for rest and socialization. These insights are of significant importance to urban planners, emphasizing the need to comprehensively design UGS from a child’s perspective, considering their specific needs and activity preferences. A more humane, inclusive, and child-friendly UGS can be created by achieving this aim.

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