"I Just Walk Around and Try Something New": Investigating Children's Risky Play in Urban Neighborhood Spaces Using Play-Alongs

Abstract

Risky play provides valuable developmental benefits for children. Using play-alongs, photo elicitation, and duo-interviews with 7–10-year-olds, this study investigates children's risky play experiences and behavior in a Dutch neighborhood, focusing on environmental influences. Results revealed children's natural inclination toward risky play, where they carefully balance risks and rewards, often through peer interactions. Informal and green spaces proved especially supportive, offering varied opportunities for risky play. These findings underscore the importance of integrating children's play needs into urban planning by maintaining and enhancing informal neighborhood play areas that facilitate beneficial risk-taking experiences.