The Influence of outdoor spatial attributes in landscape settings on children’s behavioural wellbeing in Sri Lankan childcare settings

Abstract

Outdoor spatial environments are increasingly recognized as vital contributors to children’s holistic development. In Sri Lanka, however, childcare centres (CCCs) often underutilize outdoor spaces, focusing mainly on indoor routines. This article investigates how outdoor spatial design influences children’s behavioral well-being, focusing on two objectives: (1) Document the spatial characteristics and design elements of the outdoor environment in a CCC; and (2) Analyze the relationship between outdoor spatial design and children’s behaviors related to autonomy, interaction, exploration, and affective expression. A qualitative case study was implemented at a selected CCC in Nugegoda, observing 24 children aged 1–5 years over four different outdoor zones. Data was collected using structured behavioral mapping, Children’s Activity Rating Scale (CARS) scores, and monotony measures. Analysis utilized Minitab software for descriptive statistics and Microsoft Excel to produce graphical representations of the data. The results show that outdoor environments which provided sensory richness and features of diversity supported displays of autonomy, exploration and positive affective engagement. In contrast, monotony or more structured settings resulted in lower levels of engagement which often led to sedentary behavior. The findings highlight the importance of integrating landscape architectural design aspects, especially Herrington’s Seven Cs Framework for outdoor space with children in CCCs, to promote children's behavioral well-being.