Exploring barriers to inclusion for neurodivergent children in public spaces

Case study evidence from urbanising Wenzhou

Bibliographic Data

ID7472437
AuthorsLingling Deng (0000-0002-0439-3978, Wenzhou-Kean University, corresponding author), Xiangxin Wang (Wenzhou-Kean University), Qianhui Lian (Wenzhou-Kean University), Xiuqi Sun (0009-0000-9743-5809, Wenzhou-Kean University), Yixiao Shen (Wenzhou-Kean University), Yumeng Wang (0000-0003-1258-0404, Wenzhou-Kean University), Hongyu Qu (Wenzhou-Kean University)
Year2026
Volume172
Pages106819
Publication date2026-05-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueCities (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0264-2751 • E-ISSN: 1873-6084
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.cities.2026.106819
OpenAlexW7128518003
LanguageEN
References cited30

Public spaces are essential for promoting inclusion and children’s well-being in urban settings. However, entering a public space is still particularly challenging for neurodivergent (ND) children. ND conditions manifest through differences in cognitive, physical, and social functioning, which impact children’s participation in city life by limiting their ability to navigate, engage, and feel safe in public spaces. This study explores the barriers to spatial, social, and economic inclusion in public spaces for ND children in China, with a focus on Wenzhou. Using a mixed-methods approach including geographic mapping, caregiver surveys, expert interviews, and naturalistic observations, the study identifies significant challenges such as limited accessibility, low awareness, and unfriendly spatial characteristics. Findings reveal that existing public spaces often lack consideration for the specific needs of ND children. The investigation also identifies disparities in access to public spaces between urban and suburban areas, and strong demands for inclusive design and better support systems. Findings highlight the need for evidence-based, sensory-friendly design, community engagement, and policy-driven solutions to advance equity and inclusion. This study contributes to a growing discourse on inclusive urban planning, emphasizing the importance of designing public spaces that accommodate the needs of ND children, and providing recommendations for policy reforms. • Quantifies public space accessibility for neurodivergent (ND) children. • Integrates data within a three-dimensional inclusive city framework to compare ND and neurotypical inclusion. • Identifies an accessibility gap where ND families' awareness is low despite space availability. • Reveals inequities in access to child-friendly public spaces, especially in suburban areas. • Recommends evidence-based urban regeneration, inclusive policy, and community engagement

Equity (law · Inclusion (mineral · Limiting · Public open space · Public policy · Public space · Space (punctuation) · Universal design · Children's Rights and Participation · Disability Rights and Representation · Urban Green Space and Health

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