A Relational Nature Play Framework: A Case Study of Urban Generation Alpha’s Nature Play Using TerraToy

Abstract

Background This research responds to the concern surrounding Generation Alpha’s disconnection from nature and limited design studies exploring relational aspects of nature play intervention. To address this gap, we devise a ‘relational nature play framework,’ incorporating a sense of nature connection, ecological affordance theory, and ludic design for nature play. Methods We developed an interactive toy mimicking a companion species and tested its influence on children’s sense of nature connection and ecological affordances. We conducted a qualitative study using participant observation and interviews with 20 children (age=11) living in urban areas to explore their nature play experiences. We also used pre/post-play testing to measure the changes in the participants’ sense of nature connection and ecological affordances. Results The ludic design approach to nature play increased children’s sense of nature connection and expanded and reinforced actualized affordances between children and nature, fostering reciprocal relationships. Based on these results, we propose design strategies for relational nature play: flexible interactions that provide eco-feedback and open-ended interfaces compatible with various aspects of the natural elements. Conclusions This research contributes to the field of human-nature interaction design by providing theoretical and empirical knowledge of relational nature play and design strategies tailored to Generation Alpha’s disconnection from nature.