Integrating child-friendly green spaces into post-disaster recovery: Psychological, physical, and educational sustainability impact on children’s well-being

This study investigates the role of Child-Friendly Green Spaces (CFGS) in supporting children's psychological, physical, and educational recovery in the wake of disasters. Moreover, the study analyses the barriers and strategies that influence their efficacy of CFGS integration. The methodology employed is that of a comprehensive literature review, synthesising interdisciplinary evidence from environmental psychology, urban planning, public health, and education, for studies published between 2000 and 2024.

The results show that CFGS significantly reduce trauma-related symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress, promotes physical health through active play, and foster educational engagement by improving concentration, attendance, and informal learning opportunities. Despite these advantages, the study finds that CFGS are often overlooked in formal disaster recovery planning. Instead, the prioritization is of immediate relief, financial and logistical challenges, and socio-cultural factors. To address these challenges, this study proposes a participatory, culturally sensitive framework for CFGS implementation, which integrates inclusive design, multi-sector collaboration, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation.