Design cities where children can play and learn independently

In this review article, the author reviews theoretical and empirical literature to address the following questions: What are the characteristics of cities and neighborhoods that are positive or negative for children? What are the implications for children's lives of the existence of positive characteristics and of children's being able to take advantage of them? From the literature, the author identifies the problems children face in their use of various parts of the city, as well as the reasons why it is important to address these problems. She also identifies the reasons why it is important to address these problems and the characteristics of cities and neighborhoods that need to be considered in order to create safe places for children to play independently, with all of the associated and documented benefits of those opportunities. At the city level, the important characteristics are those physical and social factors that facilitate or hinder the independent use by children of the existing opportunities and services. At the neighborhood level, the important environmental characteristics are those that facilitate independent outdoor play at as early an age as possible.