9. Cities for children

PodParks

Welcome to a new episode of Podparks!

Here's a sneak peek to the episode notes, you can access the complete notes and resources at https://worldurbanparks.org/blog/podparks/

How would our cities change if we designed them with children in mind? This is the question we seek to answer on this week’s Podparks, with the help of Amanda O’Rourke, Executive Director at 8-80 Cities, Leticia Lozano, founder of MACIA Studio, and Jennifer De Melo, Senior Strategist of Organization Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at Kaboom.

Modern cities are designed around working men's commutes, and this has historically excluded other city experiences from the urban space.

But there is a great significance of designing cities with children in mind. Amanda and Leticia discuss how children are indicators of healthy and thriving cities and the need to prioritize their safety, independence, and overall development. Design elements that facilitate child-friendly cities, including spacious sidewalks, safe crossings, rest areas, shade, and accessible transportation systems, enable children to navigate their neighborhoods independently and foster socialization, motor skill development, and cognitive growth.

But safety is not the final destination fo child-friendly cities. As Jen De Melo suggests, integrating play into city design is a vital aspect of childhood development, contributing to physical, mental, and social well-being.

If you want to read the complete notes for this episode check our blog section on our website. This podcast is only one of the many resources available inside the WUP member platform. Discover more resources and connect with park professionals around the world at www.worldurbanparks.org

*** The Call for Proposals for the World Urban Parks Congress 2023 has been extended until May 19th. Submit your abstract for the World Urban Parks Congress 2023 at https://www.parksleisure.com.au/tools/events/details?SECT=events&ID=22128%20 ***​​