| The purpose of this study was to explore the availability and use of outdoor spaces in pediatric facilities. Child Life Specialists (CLS) were surveyed to explore their views on access to outdoor space and general availability of those spaces. There are important developmental benefits of providing children with access to nature, such as social and emotional well-being. Studies with adult patients have shown reduction in reliance on pain medication, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times through nature scenes or having a window in their room. Healing gardens, play gardens, and play yards are available at some facilities and provide important information about the purpose and benefits of such spaces. Exploring CLS' use of outdoor space and the impact on their patients contributes to appropriately supporting pediatric patients. The results from the present study showed that the majority of respondents have access to outdoor space, and the usage patterns vary in part due to space design. Implications from the study suggest that in order to better serve a wide variety of age groups, many outdoor spaces could use changes. |
