Children's outdoor activities in the inner suburbs of Brisbane, Australia

Abstract

To examine the impact of residential design on children's out-of-school, outdoor activities, 149 urban, upper-primary-school children were surveyed about their activities and opinions. Findings indicate children participate in outdoor activities unsupervised in yards that provide busy families quick, convenient access to safe greenspace without the need to drive or closely supervise. The research concluded that government policies are required to ensure residential developments provide yards with usable greenspace, leafy streetscapes and safe, walkable access to local facilities. Increased public awareness and understanding of the benefits of greenspace close to home and the importance of children's independent mobility must be prioritised.