Children’s Use of Nature in New Zealand Playgrounds

Abstract

Children value natural environments, which also provide developmental benefits for children. Many studies, however, have used self-report techniques to examine children’s preference for natural environments. We used observational timesampling methods to document children’s behavior at 56 playgrounds in New Zealand in order to determine their preference, in terms of rate of use, for natural elements compared to built play equipment. Overall, children spent 14 percent of their total time playing on, or with, natural elements. Both boys and girls used natural elements, with boys using them more than girls. Natural elements were usually physically separated from built playground equipment, which may have contributed to their lower use. Children tended to use natural elements more when a greater diversity of natural elements was available. Natural elements afford more diverse play opportunities than do built play items, and are also subject to seasonal variation, making them important features of community playgrounds.