Abstract
This study aims (1) to clarify needs for children's play space with play leaders as well as the actual use and evaluation of users, and (2) to consider how the children's play space in future should be. The authors selected “Play-School” operated by the Play-School Foundation. The findings of our research based on the results of the questionnaire sent to and collected from parents at the Play-School are as follows :
1) The parents who were not satisfied with neighborhood play space and worried about children's play itself sent their children to the Play-School.
2) The respondents state that they chose the Play-School mainly because of the contents of play as well as the presence of play leaders; they highly evaluated the play activities offered by the Play-School and the quality of their children's play mate.
3) Most of the respondents regard the play leaders as their children's senior play mates, or seniors who are tasked to teach a lot of things other than play. In other words, the parents appreciate their presence.
4) Many of the parents hope that the children's play space is located within an area of their children's daily activities and easily available free of charge.
