Is the city recoverable as a space for children? Theoretical approach from the perspective of social, participatory and sustainable urban planning

Abstract

The conception of urban space is decisive in the structuring of thought. It is important for children because it conditions the development of experiences that consolidate skills and abilities, favouring meaningful learning. However, the development of children has encountered obstacles in the contemporary period due to a progressive dehumanization of cities. In this study we have analyzed some initiatives that encourage children encounter with their cities (The City of Children by Francesco Tonucci; Child Friendly Cities by UNICEF), and also the role that social, participatory and sustainable urban planning is playing as converging current with these initiatives. The fundamental bases of these ways of understanding the city are analyzed through a review of institutional docu-ments, projects and bibliographic sources. And some examples from Spain are studied in order to demonstrate how this urban trend can serve as a model of intervention in municipalities committed to child defence programs.