A systems change approach to transforming schoolyards

While school boards are beginning to prioritize student health and well-being, schoolyards remain peripheral—typically funded by school councils rather than system-wide investment. This leaves many children, especially those in neighborhoods with fewer resources, facing the greatest inequities in the quality and accessibility of their schoolyards.That gap undermines children’s development, social connection, and opportunities for outdoor learning and play. 

Most schoolyards are designed according to outdated standards that emphasize safety and cost at the expense of engagement, health, and equity. Comprehensive policy reform is needed at the district, provincial, and national levels to ensure equitable funding for schoolyard improvements, mandate inclusive design, incorporate outdoor learning into curricula, provide professional development, enhance recess supports, and establish clear accountability measures.

As childhood obesity, anxiety, and depression continue to rise, access to safe, engaging outdoor spaces is more important than ever. Children spend a considerable amount of their developmental years in school and research shows that well-designed, well-maintained schoolyards promote physical activity, reduce stress, and enhance mood and focus. Yet in many communities—especially those with limited resources—schoolyards remain barren, paved, poorly supervised, and uninspiring.

School boards are among the largest landowners, and their schoolyards have the potential to make a significant impact. When designed to be sustainable and ecologically sensitive, these spaces not only give children direct access to the mental health benefits of nature, but also help cool urban heat islands, manage stormwater, boost biodiversity, and improve air quality—offering lasting benefits to the broader community

University education requirements and professional development opportunities should focus on evidence-based best practices for schoolyard design. Key topics include universal design, inclusive recess and play, equitable access to sports, balancing safety and liability with children’s need for challenge and exploration, the connection between recess and student engagement and achievement, the benefits of greening and sustainability, and effective strategies for supporting students across all grade levels.

Applying universal design principles can transform barren, lifeless schoolyards into vibrant, sustainable spaces that are welcoming and inclusive for all children. Universal design aims to create environments that are usable by everyone, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized modifications. By incorporating a wide variety of features, universal design removes environmental barriers, supports diverse forms of participation, and fosters a strong sense of belonging.