Better Public Spaces for Teenage Girls

One size certainly does not fit all when it comes to park and playground design. In this informative article, Alexandra Lange offers insights about the unique needs of teenage girls with respect to public spaces. She points out that most parks and playgrounds tend to be designed with boys and competition in mind. So, what do teenage girls want and need? Lange summarizes the results of surveys: "they want hangout spots with cozy round tables and art or games that foster interaction, not competition. They want gyms and roller rinks and skate parks where they can try and fail without judgement or catcalls. They want to listen to music outdoors without having to pay for a festival ticket. Making space for girls means rethinking which age groups need to swing and climb, how to encourage physical activity (and not just playing a sport), and how to make a safe, sheltered place for outdoor conversation."

The article discusses a temporary playscape called "Swing Time," which included 20 hoop-shaped swings suspended from a white shade structure that would light up when in use, glowing purple with vigorous motion. Swing Time turned out to be highly popular with teen girls because it was "big enough for adolescent bodies, close enough for conversation, fun enough to appeal to a desire for thrills." To see what this unique playscape looked like and better understand the need and importance of public spaces that specifically address the needs of teen girls, be sure to check out the source article.