During our recent two-week family vacation in Melbourne, Australia, my husband and I took our two energetic toddlers along for the adventure. Like most little ones, they thrive when given the opportunity to run free and explore the outdoors. We quickly realized that access to nearby playgrounds would be essential for keeping them entertained.
Our Australian friends assured us that Melbourne boasts an impressive variety of playgrounds, far superior to those we’ve encountered in our home city of Washington, D.C. Here, you can find play areas featuring everything from dinosaur-themed adventures to tennis stadium-inspired spaces, complete with mini grandstands and commentary boxes.
What truly amazed me, however, were the fundamentals that these parks got right:
- Accessibility: Parks are abundant and easy to find.
- Inclusive Designs: They cater to children of all ages, from toddlers to teens.
- Hydration Stations: Many parks provide running—and sometimes even filtered—water, which is cold and refreshing.
- Restroom Facilities: Public restrooms are often conveniently located on-site.
- Snack Options: Some parks even feature snack shops for those unexpected cravings.
In contrast, many playgrounds in D.C. lack even the most basic amenities. Frequently, the water fountains are either broken or only provide a trickle of water that requires a child to practically lick the spout to get a drink. Chilled water? That seems to be a luxury. Given the summer heat in our area, access to cool drinking water is crucial for keeping kids hydrated.
As for public restrooms, if they exist at all, they often seem to be locked for no apparent reason. This creates a real concern for parents who must consider restroom availability when choosing a playground. If the nearest restroom is a 10-15 minute walk away, the trip might not be worth it—especially on a sweltering day.
And let’s talk about snack options. The hope of encountering an ice cream truck seems to be the best bet. The absence of these basic amenities makes visiting a playground in D.C. feel like preparing for an expedition into the wilderness. Parents must come equipped for every possible scenario—diaper changes, hunger pangs, and thirst. If you run out of water or face an urgent bathroom situation, it’s time to pack up and head home.
While some may argue that it’s my responsibility to bring food, water, and diapers for my kids, my experience in Melbourne showed me how liberating it can be to visit parks equipped with these essentials. We didn’t have to cut our outings short or rush to find a nearby coffee shop when nature called.
These may seem like minor inconveniences, but they highlight a larger issue. Thoughtful city planning that prioritizes family-friendly amenities sends a clear message: we value our citizens and their well-being. That’s the environment in which I aspire to raise my family.
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In summary, America can learn a lot from Australia’s public parks. By prioritizing accessible amenities like water fountains, restrooms, and snack options, cities can create welcoming spaces for families to thrive.