The crowded, polluted and hectic city is often seen as a less favourable living environment for children. In recent years however the city improved not only its image as a cultural centre and multi functional society but also its physique due to urban renewal schemes and spontaneous gentrification. Because of these developments the child in the city has been rediscovered as well. However, the freedom for children to play in the streets and to stroll around has decreased strongly over the past decades. This book deals with the shaping of a modern urban society in order to benefit children and grownups. Themes are: increased traffic, changed playing behaviour, stronger parental concern and differences between boys and girls. The first part focuses on the way in which children's behaviour is being constrained by their urban environment. The second part highlights children's own preferences when analysing their behaviour. The third part deals with the planning of the urban environment. The last part focuses on the differences between children with various ethnical backgrounds. Can cities become more child-friendly? The search for balance between children's wishes and urban possibilities is the central subject of this volume. It contains contributions from eight Western countries. (A)
Abstract