Children's Experiences of Green Spaces in Ankara Neighborhoods with Different Green Space Ratios
PLANLAMA-PLANNING, cilt.36, sa.2, ss.313-338, 2026 (ESCI, TRDizin)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 36 Sayı: 2
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.14744/planlama.2026.97355
- Dergi Adı: PLANLAMA-PLANNING
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.313-338
- Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
This study aims to compare the time children spend in green spaces across neighborhoods with different green space ratios. It then seeks to explain the observed differences through children's reported activities and problems encountered in these spaces. The results are based on data obtained from seven neighborhoods in Ankara. The green space ratios of neighborhoods were calculated based on objective measurements. The data regarding the amount of time spent in green spaces were obtained from 9-to-14-year-old children's activity diaries completed during the spring season. Finally, the data regarding the children's neighborhood activities and the problems they encountered were obtained from a participatory mapping activity conducted with the same children who filled out the activity diaries. Results show that, on weekdays, the amount of time spent in green spaces in general, and parks and gardens in particular, does not differ between neighborhoods with lower and higher green space ratios. However, during weekends, children who live in greener neighborhoods tend to spend more time in parks. While there is no relationship between living in greener neighborhoods and participation in more nature-based activities, an inverse relationship was observed between living in greener neighborhoods and the number of problems experienced by children in green spaces. Children experience these problems at different intensities in different types of green spaces. Age also seems to influence children's negative place experiences. These findings provide valuable insights for urban planners and designers aiming to increase children's engagement with nature.