Green Neighbourhoods

Image credit: PPH

Create variations in the landscape

Differences in high-low, dark-light, open-closed, dry-wet make a play area more interesting, less predictable and more natural. Unexpected (natural) differences in the terrain such as hills, horizontal tree trunks and rocks for climbing and exploring are encouraged.

Use various natural materials

Ground: clay, sand, mud
Water: pumps, fountains, streams, wetlands, ponds
Planting: groundcover and flowers, shrubs, trees
Materials: wood and steel

Cater to the needs of children

Encourage active movement such as climbing and running, provide some peaceful sitting areas while allowing others to play together and make noise. Children should feel welcome and be comfortable in all seasons

Allow children to explore the possibilities of nature

Create opportunities to playfully change the surroundings with sand, mud, and water, use loose natural elements as play equipment, allow children to exercise their imagination and creativity and make it inviting to explore nature. Encourage children to make something useful and beautiful from natural materials. Make it possible for hands-on nature and environmental education within the city.

Involve children in the design process, realisation, maintenance and use

Educate and demonstrate how nature can be created in the city and encourage continuing interaction with the seasonal changes of nature.

Provide children with the opportunity to experience and play in nature within the city.