Engaging Student Voices and Choices

Developing a Playground for All

Abstract

It is critical to include student voices in the decision-making process regarding school playgrounds, empowering children to assist in the creation and design of their environment. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to engage student voice regarding current and ideal activity spaces. Data were collected through drawings and focus group interviews, followed by qualitative analysis. Three themes emerged: (1) participants believed both play structures and green spaces were critical; (2) participants prioritized group-based activities and safety; and (3) participants believed that the space would be ideal in alternative hours, but they did not believe their family members would use the space.