Designing Outdoor Environments for Children

A Revolution in Play:
"Designing Outdoor Environments for Children" is a thorough investigation of how spaces for children aid in the development of necessary motor skills, intellectual and imaginative stimulation, and an early exposure to nature that will foster lifelong appreciation. No topic is untouched - history, design process, sustainability, case studies, and fundraising are all included. Not only is the text written in a clear, concise manner with many insightful images, but the text also provides the seeds with which a revolution in children's play will occur, hopefully soon. Designers, parents, principals, and teachers should all read, and will undoubtedly benefit from the unique concepts presented here. The environments for our children can become more inspirational, more nurturing, and should be made over; the authors tell you why and show you how.

Jury Comments: 2007 Professional Awards Program:
2007 PA/DE Chapter ASLA President's Award Winner Jury Comments: The book is wonderfully illustrated and chock full of very useful information. This will be a great tool in the training and knowledge of a landscape architect in a very practical manner--good for every day use.

Excellent Resource:
I have found 'Designing Outdoor Environments for Children' to be an excellent addition to my library. I will include this publication as a part of the 'Introduction to Horticultural Therapy' class I am teaching. It will be very useful in helping students understand the essential role outdoor environments can play in teaching children about nature. The book is also an excellent resource in my own work designing residences and school playgrounds. Children, more than ever, need to reconnect with nature. The need to strengthen our interaction with nature cannot be overstressed today!