Over the winter break, my family and I spent two weeks in Melbourne, Australia, with our two energetic toddlers. Like most young kids, they thrive in outdoor spaces where they can run and play freely. We were eager to explore the local playgrounds.
Our Australian friends assured us that Melbourne boasts an abundance of top-notch playspaces, far superior to what we find back home in Washington, D.C. In Australia, you can find playgrounds that feature everything from dinosaur-themed adventures to tennis-inspired kids’ areas complete with child-sized grandstands and commentary boxes.
What truly impressed me, however, was their focus on essential amenities:
- They’re found everywhere—no shortage here.
- Facilities cater to all age groups—from toddlers to teens.
- Many parks offer running water, often filtered and refreshing.
- Numerous locations have public restrooms available.
- If you’re lucky, you might even find snack shops on-site!
In contrast, many playgrounds in D.C. lack basic amenities. Even newer parks often have non-functioning water fountains, or they only dribble out a few drops—barely enough for a thirsty child. Cold water? That’s a rare treat.
If we’re using taxpayer money for public services, why can’t all playgrounds provide access to cold drinking water? With our sweltering summers, it’s crucial to keep kids hydrated, and we should make it easy for them.
Public restrooms are another story. If a playground has them, they’re often locked. For parents of potty-trained children or teens, the absence of a bathroom nearby can be a significant deterrent when choosing a playground. If it’s more than a short walk back home, the trip often isn’t worth it, especially on a hot day.
As for snacks? You’re better off hoping for an ice cream truck to make an appearance.
This lack of amenities makes me feel like I’m preparing for a survival expedition every time we visit a playground in D.C. You have to pack for every possible scenario—hunger, thirst, accidents. If you run out of water or need to make a quick bathroom trip, it’s time to pack it all up and head home.
While some might argue that it’s my responsibility to bring everything my kids need, after two weeks enjoying Melbourne’s playgrounds, I certainly appreciated not having to pack for an adventure. When they needed to use the bathroom, we didn’t have to cut our fun short or dash to the nearest café.
These may seem like minor inconveniences, but they reflect larger issues. Well-planned urban spaces that accommodate families signal that a city cares about its citizens and their well-being. That’s the kind of environment I aspire to raise my family in.
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In summary, America could greatly benefit from adopting some of the successful strategies seen in Australia’s public parks. By prioritizing basic amenities and family-friendly features, cities can create welcoming environments for all families.
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