Free PDH of the Month: Children's Heat and Radiation Exposures in Playgrounds and the Role of Bioclimatic Design

ASLA continues to offer one on-demand webinar each month at no cost to all current members! Members must register for the Free PDH of the Month and pass the exam during the month it is featured in order to earn professional development hours.

In July, in celebration of Park and Recreation Month, we are featuring:

Children's Heat and Radiation Exposures in Playgrounds and the Role of Bioclimatic Design - 1.0 PDH (LA CES/HSW)

Overexposure to ambient variables such as ultraviolet radiation and extreme heat are major risk factors to children’s health. Many playgrounds are designed in a way that results in higher air and surface temperatures than the surrounding neighborhood, which is due to the predominant use of heat retaining materials and lack of shade. Few guidelines exist to promote the naturalization of playgrounds and the use of shade, which can result in multiple benefits for children apart from lowering heat and radiant exposures. This research addresses child exposures to extreme heat and UV radiation in outdoor playgrounds in Phoenix, AZ and Lubbock, TX and the influence of bioclimatic landscape design. Multiple types of data (in-situ, personal, survey) are presented related to microclimatic and human activity factors that affect child exposures and perceptions. New sensing technologies offer opportunities to understand exposures and monitor children’s exposures while allowing for safe and active play.