Children's Perceptions of the Use of Public Open Spaces for Active Free-play

Abstract

Activity performed by children in their free-time may have a significant impact on overall physical activity levels, however, very little is known about the influences on children's active free-play. To examine the role and use of public open spaces, 132 children (6–12 years) from a selection of primary schools participated in small focus group interviews. Children reported that their use of public open spaces was influenced by a combination of intrapersonal, social and environmental factors including; the play equipment and facilities at local parks, lack of independent mobility, urban design features, presence of friends, and personal motivation.

Keywords:

• Physical activity
• play
• children
• public open spaces

Acknowledgements

The current study was funded by the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation and Parks Victoria. Jenny Veitch is supported by a National Heart Foundation Australia Postgraduate Scholarship. Jo Salmon is supported by a National Heart Foundation Australia Career Development Award. Kylie Ball is supported by a National Health and Medical Research Council/National Heart Foundation Career Development Award.