Parents’ and caregivers’ perspectives on the benefits of a high-risk outdoor play space

Abstract

Adult values, attitudes, behaviours, and beliefs are factors that shape childhood exposure to risk-taking experiences. This study examined the role of adults in supporting children’s play and learning in a high-risk park environment. Considering this context, our research incorporated a two-phased mixed-methods approach to explore parent and caregiver perceptions of a bespoke Australian outdoor “nature play park” named Boongaree. Quantitative data collected from participants (n = 302) investigated playground visitation patterns, and qualitative data were collected around parents’ and caregivers’ insights around the benefits and challenges of the park. A noteworthy finding that emerged was the parents’ and caregivers’ strong support of children’s risky play at this park and how the park supported the children’s development. Nine emergent themes from the qualitative data showed that the adults supported their children’s engagement with this high-risk park as it offered opportunities to (1) engage with an innovative nature play park, (2) be challenged and solve problems, (3) connect to the outdoors, (4) have fun, (5) direct their own play, (6) be physically active, (7) be creative and curious, (8) demonstrate confidence and independence, and (9) build social capacity. Finally, our study concluded that the risk appetite or risk tolerance level of parents’ and caregivers’ is one of the primary factors underpinning their desire to engage (and re-engage) with risky nature play opportunities for their child.