The aim of this research is to understand the context of the built urban environment in terms of its role in influences parent’s perception of their child’s safety; for the purposes of this research the built urban environment is defined as, “the human-made space in which people live, work, and recreate on a day-to-day basis; it includes the buildings and spaces we create or modify” (Roof & Oleru, 2008, 24). Outdoor play is associated with development, health, well-being, and physical activity in children. It also delivers benefits that are not readily available in doors, such as: acquaintance to natural environments, road and traffic safety skills, and social engagement. Yet half of Canadian children play actively outdoors for less than three hours a week (Tremblay et al. 2015). Since parents are likely to be a prominent impact on their children's behavior and choices it is important to use qualitative literature research and Geographic Information Science (GIS) methodologies to understand what elements influence parent’s perception in restraining access to outdoor play for children (Santo Paula et al., 2013).

Project Scope

The findings from this research do not offer a solution to the research question; rather compliment the study being done by Dr. Mariana Brussoni, in creating a universal Playability scale, similar to the Walkability Index for Canada. This study is a small percentage of the research that looks further into the perceived parental safety aspect that reduces child’s play in their neighbourhood.