When the City Becomes a Playground: Interactions Between Children’s Playful Practices and Urban Planning in The Hague

This thesis investigates the fundamental right of children to play in urban environments, focusing on the interactions between children's playful practices and the decisions of urban planners and policy makers, using the city of The Hague as a case study. Central to the research is the question: How does the provision for and management of play spaces in The Hague reflect and impact children's claims to public space through playful activities? Taking a qualitative approach and supported by a theoretical framework centred around the concepts of ‘right to the city’, ‘informal play', and ‘prefigurative politics’, the study evaluates The Hague's approach to children's play. Findings reveal that the municipality understands what constitutes a play-friendly city, but its consideration of informal play opportunities still lags behind that of designated play environments. Efforts to incorporate children's perspectives are evident, yet mainly come in the form of formal participatory methods...Show moreThis thesis investigates the fundamental right of children to play in urban environments, focusing on the interactions between children's playful practices and the decisions of urban planners and policy makers, using the city of The Hague as a case study. Central to the research is the question: How does the provision for and management of play spaces in The Hague reflect and impact children's claims to public space through playful activities? Taking a qualitative approach and supported by a theoretical framework centred around the concepts of ‘right to the city’, ‘informal play', and ‘prefigurative politics’, the study evaluates The Hague's approach to children's play. Findings reveal that the municipality understands what constitutes a play-friendly city, but its consideration of informal play opportunities still lags behind that of designated play environments. Efforts to incorporate children's perspectives are evident, yet mainly come in the form of formal participatory methods and lack direct engagement with children's play practices. The thesis argues that this current approach undermines the agency of children and favours an approach to play that is more considerate of children's prefigurative activities. Additionally, the effects of the Omgevingswet (Environment and Planning Act) on the Dutch debate on children's play are examined. While the introduction of the act holds potential for positive change, it also presents challenges, such as ensuring that children's voices are heard, and their rights are protected. The research underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to guarantee the alignment of urban planning with children's needs and preferences for play.Show less

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When the City Becomes a Playground: Interactions Between Children’s Playful Practices and Urban Planning in The Hague