Singapore’s playgrounds are evolving, shaped by tighter spaces, safety regulations and shifting design priorities. While the number of playgrounds has increased, traditional elements like swings and sandpits have become less common due to safety-zone requirements and maintenance concerns. Experts highlight that many play spaces prioritise aesthetics over child-centred functionality, resulting in unintuitive layouts, unclear play flow and limited opportunities for gross motor development. Parents and educators also note that overly restricted or overly “safe” playgrounds can reduce children’s physical activity and limit opportunities for sensory exploration, imaginative play and skill-building.

Evelyn Chan, NTUC First Campus’ Senior Occupational Therapist, emphasise that appropriate risk-taking is essential for children’s development. She said that challenges help children understand their bodies and build protective mechanisms, provided the risk comes from navigating space, and not from faulty or poorly designed equipment.

Thoughtful playgrounds require a balance of safety, stimulation and inclusivity, offering age-appropriate features, access to high elements, nature-based materials and spaces where neurotypical and neurodivergent children can play together. As Singapore pushes for more meaningful play environments, incorporating expert perspectives earlier in the design process and integrating nature, sensory richness and open-ended elements will be key to keeping playgrounds both safe and exciting for the next generation.

Media coverage:

Straits Times Online (8 November 2025)

Straits Times Print (9 November 2025)