Child Development Theory and Planning for Neighbourhood Play

Abstract

Playing is defined here as imitation whereby children become acquainted with the world of adults. In this sense playing is an essential component of development. According to this definition, easy access to the world of adults is a prerequisite if play is to fulfill its role for development. In large cities the conditions of urban life make this access to the immediate surroundings of children's homes difficult. Conditions for an urban environment with a human dimension are outlined. In particular the place and function of a playground in a neighbourhood are explored. Specifically, to fulfill its role, a playground should not be "an island" isolated from the rest of neighbourhood, but one of the places that children have access to in the neighbourhood.