Parental perceptions on climate change & associated environmental hazards and its influence on outdoor play opportunities for children aged 3-5 years in urban Bangladesh

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and environmental changes in Bangladesh, particularly in urban areas like Dhaka and Chittagong, have significantly reduced children’s access to outdoor play spaces. This situation has affected children’s physical activity, social interaction, and overall well-being. The present study explores parents’ perspectives on climate change and its influence or consequences on outdoor play opportunities for children aged 3-5 years in urban areas of Bangladesh. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) with parents from different socio-economic groups in various urban locations. The findings reveal that parents recognize outdoor play as essential for children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development; however, environmental degradation, rising temperatures, and urban pollution have limited children’s safe access to outdoor spaces. Parents also expressed growing concern about the importance of outdoor intervention ensuring safety and reduced physical activity among their children. The study highlights the urgent need for community-based initiatives, green urban planning, and parental awareness programs to ensure children’s right to safe and healthy outdoor play.