Worlds of play

A shorter perspective on perfect places

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  • Published 20210728
  • ISBN: 978-1-922212-62-7
  • Extent: 264pp
  • Paperback (234 x 153mm), eBook

IMAGINE A PARK made out of candy, with bridges featuring water cannons that shoot water onto kayakers below. Imagine huge climbing walls from which you can jump onto giant trampolines, or a place that allows you to skydive into your neighbourhood park. Imagine a treetop library with beanbags all around the grass below so that you can sit and read outside.

Are these children’s dreams, a cartoon-like fantasy – or aspects of a utopia that could serve our entire society better? Could children’s imaginations point us towards a vision that could serve everyone well, assisting the design of more thoughtful and natural spaces that we can all enjoy more? According to Mara Mintzer, an advocate for child-friendly cities, it’s the latter. A city that accommodates for children – and I’m using the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child definition of ‘children’ here as anyone under eighteen – is one that becomes more inclusive for all citizens, especially the elderly and those with disabilities.

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About the author

Irene Caselli

Based in Greece, Irene Caselli is the founder of The First 1,000 Days, a journalism platform that explores the foundational period of our lives,...

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