Natural Playspace Comparison Study

What are we trying to do or learn?

While research has firmly established the superior benefits of nature-engaged outdoor play, few studies have directly compared play behaviors supported by natural playspaces versus conventional outdoor playspaces, in part because of the dearth of data collection methodologies capable of capturing both children’s in-situ play behavior and related environmental supports. This study examines differences in children's play and social behaviors in outdoor spaces across the continuum from conventional playspaces dominated by play structures and hardscapes to highly naturalized playspaces. Findings highlight the impacts of playspace type on play type, diversity of play, peer & adult social interactions, nature and wildlife interactions and risky play behaviors.

Where and with whom?

We studied play & social behaviors in 5 public playspaces in San Francisco, ranging from conventional to manufactured/natural hybrids to very naturalized. Behaviors were captured for all children ages 0-17 years who visited these public playspaces.

Approach & Methods Used

We used a comprehensive behavior mapping protocol to capture and locate children's playspace activities to link their play and social behaviors to specific environmental features and conditions

Findings & Publications

• Loebach, J. (2024, Dec 3-5). Playing naturally? Examining differences in support for diverse outdoor play and interaction experiences in naturalized versus conventional playspaces. Child in the City Conference, Rotterdam, NL.