New Playability Index Reveals Outdoor Play Gaps for Children

A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Emily Gemmell, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of British Columbia (UBC) School of Population and Public Health, has unveiled Canada’s first nationwide “playability index.” This innovative tool evaluates how well neighbourhoods support outdoor free play for young children, highlighting significant disparities across urban environments.

The importance of outdoor play for children cannot be overstated. It is a vital component of their development, encompassing not just physical activity but also social interaction and cognitive growth. Dr. Gemmell explains that children engage in physical activity primarily through play rather than structured exercise, making the availability of safe and engaging outdoor spaces crucial.

“Outdoor environments promote more movement and support the development of gross and fine motor skills,” Dr. Gemmell noted in an interview. This engagement not only fosters physical health but also enhances cognitive and behavioural well-being. Nature and varied outdoor settings are essential for children to explore and develop their skills in diverse environments.

Many urban areas pose barriers to outdoor play. The prevalence of car-centric city planning contributes to parental concerns about traffic safety, often resulting in children being kept indoors. Factors such as limited time for outdoor activities, societal expectations that prioritize adult-directed play, and the allure of screen-based entertainment further diminish outdoor play opportunities. Dr. Gemmell emphasizes that while adults often think of parks and playgrounds as the primary sites for play, children view a wider range of spaces as potential play areas.

To address these issues, the playability index was created to assess how conducive neighbourhoods are to outdoor free play. Traditional urban health metrics typically focus on adult behaviours, such as walkability or access to public transit. Dr. Gemmell’s research, however, recognizes that children engage with their environment differently.

The index is based on a review of studies from 17 countries and identifies five key domains that support outdoor play: traffic safety, social environment, play spaces, child-relevant destinations, and natural environments. Using this framework, the researchers developed 15 indicators to measure these domains within Canadian contexts.

When the index was applied across Canada, the results revealed significant disparities. Average playability scores did not differ dramatically between cities, but notable variations existed within them. In some urban areas, neighbourhoods showed differences of up to 77 percent in their playability scores. Alarmingly, 39 percent of children reside in areas where crucial factors, such as safe streets or access to nature, rank in the lowest 10 percent among all neighbourhoods.

This research has profound implications for families and policymakers alike. The playability index offers a publicly accessible tool that evaluates neighbourhoods’ support for outdoor play, covering regions where 72 percent of Canadian children live. By identifying areas needing improvement, the index empowers urban planners and policymakers to create more child-friendly environments.

Families can visit the PlayScore website to check their neighbourhood’s score across various domains. The platform aims to stimulate local discussions about community strengths and areas for enhancement, ultimately advocating for better outdoor play spaces for children.

As cities continue to evolve, it is crucial for urban planning to incorporate the needs of children. By rethinking how environments are designed, planners can foster healthier, more active lifestyles for future generations.