A Study on the Play Environment for Children in Cities and Its Changes Over 34 Years

A Reinvestigation of a Residential Area in Munich, Neuperlach (DE)

Abstract

This study reexamines the play environment in Neuperlach’s Grundschule district, comparing data from 34 years ago. Based on a questionnaire survey of 42 children, it analyzes changes using quantitative methods. The findings reveal a decline in average playtime by 1.33 hours and a shift toward playing in limited spaces like homes and schoolyards. Despite the district’s well-preserved green spaces and no significant spatial changes, children's outdoor play opportunities have significantly decreased. While opportunity of indoor play have grown, analysis of play methods indicates strong support for outdoor play. This study reveals the emergence of spatial constraints on children's play in urban spaces and identifies it as a key issue in urban planning.