University of Canterbury Professor Simon Kingham runs the Research for Resilient Environments and Communities course, where students are provided with an issue or question the community has raised. Students then work on the projects with local community groups and organisations to answer the research questions.
Led by UC Bachelor of Science student Rosemary Yorke and supervised by Phoebe Eggleton, the findings underline the importance of creating safer, more accessible spaces for children to play outside.
The research, in partnership with Christchurch City Council and a local play advocate, explored parental concerns about the decline in children’s play, attributing barriers to factors like road safety, community safety, and urbanisation.
A small group of Riccarton parents were surveyed, which revealed that over 50% of respondents identified safety concerns as the primary obstacle to outdoor play, with about 30% of the parents naming road safety issues specifically.
In response to these findings, the UC researchers proposed creating ‘play streets’ – temporary closures of residential roads, turning them into safe, supervised spaces where children can freely play. These initiatives are particularly effective in areas where playgrounds are overcrowded or inaccessible.
“Play streets create an opportunity for children to play close to home, form connections with neighbours, and develop vital cognitive and social skills,” says Yorke. “They are a proven way to foster community cohesion while addressing safety concerns.”
The UC study also recommended reducing speed limits around play areas in Riccarton to promote safer environments for children. Researchers emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts between local councils and agencies such as the Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency to implement these measures.
The research echoes trends observed internationally, where urbanisation and shifting parental perceptions have led to a decline in outdoor play. The team’s findings will be provided to the Christchurch City Council, hoping it will inspire community-led initiatives and policies to prioritise children’s wellbeing.
The Global Context of Outdoor Play Decline
Children’s outdoor play continues to decline globally due to safety concerns, technology, and urbanisation, negatively impacting their well-being.
Cities like Auckland and Wellington are addressing this with initiatives like temporary play streets, leading to permanent urban planning changes.
Inspired by successful models like the UK’s Playing Out movement, Denmark’s child-friendly cities, and car-reduced neighbourhoods in the Netherlands and Germany, these cities are prioritising children’s needs in urban design.
Local councils are key to fostering this change, collaborating with community initiatives. Public petitions have already proven effective in achieving safer streets, and schools, businesses, and public spaces can further integrate outdoor play into their plans.
Countries like Sweden and Norway, with dedicated child-safe play zones in urban design, offer valuable examples.
Despite progress, parental safety concerns and increasing screen time remain significant barriers. Balancing technology with outdoor activity is crucial.
Interactive initiatives like geocaching and park challenges can bridge the gap between digital engagement and outdoor exploration. Research emphasises the vital role of free play in developing problem-solving skills, resilience, and independence.
Educators can further support this through outdoor learning in schools and after-school programs. Increased outdoor play strengthens community bonds and fosters active citizenship.
Challenges persist, including resident resistance to street closures, council funding constraints, and prioritising vehicle traffic.
Continued advocacy from parents, educators, and local groups is essential to create safer and more accessible outdoor play opportunities for future generations.
