Abstract Manager

When you are just 85cm tall, navigating the streets and experiencing the city are different. My 2-year-old is curious, full of joy and laughter, loves music and spending time outdoors. From pine trees to weeds pushing through asphalt cracks, watching pigeons ambling along, puddles, leaves, and squirrels running up a tree matter to them. After my child, Ameyo, was born, I have started noticing elements in the streetscape I have not before. The unique and surprising aspects of exploring cities with them has opened my eyes even more to how unjust our built environment is when it comes to catering to the needs of small children, youth, and caregivers. In my presentation, I will share an honest first-hand experience on what strolling and biking along streets in different cities looks like with a small child and the untapped potential of public places have to become more human-scaled, child-friendly, and inviting to all. I’ll share places where I’ve found inspiration from, and I’ll invite you to critically observe your environment next time you go out for a walk or bike ride. After all, if our streets are not safe to walk or cycle with a 2-year-old, they are not safe for people with disabilities, youths, caretakers, women, and the elderly.