A RE-AIM evaluation of a co-designed child-friendly outdoor space in ‘the middle of nowhere’

Involving children in the co-design of outdoor spaces has been suggested as a viable approach to engagement and use. However, an in-depth evaluation of such spaces is necessary to establish their full potential. The evaluation framework RE-AIM was used to examine the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance of a Danish outdoor space that was co-designed with fifth graders from the local school. Fifth to eighth graders participated in the evaluation via a questionnaire (n = 143) and fifth and eighth graders participated in focus group discussions (n = 23). Questionnaire responses suggested that high levels of reach and adoption do not result in frequent use. Findings from focus groups highlighted seven key constraints of implementation and maintenance: (i) limited perceived accessibility, (ii) lack of possibilities for spontaneous social interactions, (iii) lack of age-appropriate activity opportunities, and (iv) competing outdoor spaces and leisure activities constrain use in the implementation phase. Furthermore, (v) insufficient upkeep, (vi) an unpleasant social atmosphere, and (vii) lack of novelty in activity opportunities limit sustained use in the maintenance phase. In conclusion, the study suggests that although co-design with children seems a viable and valuable strategy in developing child-friendly outdoor spaces, local socio-spatial factors may counteract frequent use.