Identification of Dimensions and Factors Influencing the Formation of Child-Friendly Urban Spaces: A Systematic Review of Two Decades of Research Articles

Document Type : Independent Research Articles

Authors

1 PhD Candidate, Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Master, Department of Architecture, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

 
Children, as a vulnerable and developing group within society, require urban spaces that are thoughtfully and specifically designed to meet their broad needs in educational, recreational, and social domains. However, many existing urban spaces not only fail to fully address these needs but may also pose threats to children's safety and well-being. Therefore, the design and development of urban spaces tailored to children's psychological and emotional needs are of great importance and demand special attention in the urban planning and design process. This study aims to identify the dimensions and factors influencing the design of child-friendly urban spaces through a systematic review of two decades of global research articles. The primary goal of this research is to present a comprehensive and precise overview of the key components affecting the development of urban environments suitable for children. To achieve this, relevant articles were collected and reviewed from reputable international databases such as Scopus and Elsevier, as well as domestic databases including Magiran and Civilica. The PRISMA protocol was employed for data collection and analysis. The findings indicate that in the past two decades, significant emphasis has been placed on design and functional components; however, some studies lack depth and comprehensive data, highlighting the need for further research in this field. Key influential components include enhanced and independent mobility (promoting dynamism), inspiring and educational settings (learning environments), comfort and accessibility, safe and healthy environments, social and emotional development, reduction of stress-inducing elements in street environments, the presence of responsive social interactions in urban spaces, consideration of children's walking speed versus adults, attention to children's visual perspective in street design, and the creation of environmental security in streets to support children's presence.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Urban Structure and Function Studies
Volume 13, Issue 1
March 2026
Pages 113-157

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History

  • Receive Date: 17 April 2025
  • Revise Date: 23 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 27 October 2025

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