Motor skills in playgrounds
an unsystematic literature review based on ergonomic design
Abstract
Childhood is characterized by significant physical, cognitive, and social transformations, in which play—especially in playgrounds—plays a crucial role in the development of skills and competencies. However, little is known about the influence of playground equipment design on interaction and play behaviors. This study aimed to analyze the impact of playground design on children’s interaction and physical, cognitive, and social development. An unsystematic literature review was conducted through the CAPES Journals Portal, using the terms “playground,” “motor skill,” and “affordance” for the period between 2000 and 2025. The review gathered 22 studies whose methodological approaches, sample characteristics, age ranges, and other relevant information were analyzed. The findings indicate that playground design and spatial organization have a substantial impact on children’s physical activity levels. Interventions that increased the diversity of equipment or modified their arrangement were associated with higher levels of physical engagement. By integrating varied elements and addressing the specific needs of different child groups, playground design based on ergonomic principles can serve as a key environment for promoting engagement and healthy development among users.
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