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Children’s Use of Public Space

The Gendered World of the Playground

University of Amsterdam, c.j.m.karsten{at}uva.nl

This article considers the gendered character of the contemporary playground. Based on observational studies in eight Amsterdam playgrounds and interviews with users, it is shown how playground participation, activities and micro-geographies are structured by gender. Furthermore, not only does the playground function as a gendered space, its physical and symbolic landscapes also reinforce this binary divide. In addition, the contested character of this divide is illustrated with examples of girls and boys challenging traditional gender behaviour. In its gendered access, the playground is comparable with other public spaces: in contrast, however, it has not yet been the focus of feminist critique. This article points out the wider significance of creating emancipatory public play environments.

Key Words: children • gender • playground • resident behaviour • urban space

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