What if our cities were designed with children participating in the process? What they would prioritize might surprise us all! My guest, Mara Mintzer, did a TEDx talk on the topic of including children in the city planning process, and she’s been involved in this kind of unique child-friendly endeavor in Boulder, Colorado, as the co-founder and Executive Director of Growing Up Boulder. Join us as we take a look at this topic!
Show Highlights:
- Mara’s background and current role in Boulder, CO
- Public spaces aren’t often designed for children (and mothers).
- The United Nations guidelines for human rights for those under 18 years of age
- Wisdom from the tiniest voices about slowing down, enjoying the world around us, and noticing our experiences on life’s journey
- The Nature Everywhere Initiative in cities across the US
- Are we supporting kids’ development with our public spaces?
- The value in having culturally relevant third spaces for kids
- What would a teen-friendly park look like?
- Hearing the voices of many diverse groups that have been traditionally excluded
- Feedback from people about what they want in their communities
- Promoting involvement from kids to understand their issues and craft workable solutions
- A few unexpected things that kids want in their spaces
- The dilemma for parents in kid-friendly restaurants with “adult food” AND “kid food”
- More relaxed parenting in other countries and better work-life balance
Resources and Links:
Connect with Mara Mintzer: Growing Up Boulder
Mentioned in this episode: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
Connect with KC: Website, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook
Get KC’s book, How to Keep House While Drowning
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