Children are happier in a green neighborhood
Living in communion with nature is, many times, an aspiration of may of us, because we feel deep inside that we can achieve balance only through contact with its peace, nature and beauty. Nevertheless, because we are part of this world, and it is in our nature to harmonize with it, our choices in terms of jobs, preferences, cultural or recreational activities found their place in big cities where we try to integrate the characteristics of a healthy lifestyle. Thus, we appreciate green spaces, peace, distance from crowds, but we feel better when we have easy access to shopping centers, markets, services and institutions that are important in our growth and development. Happiness, life satisfaction and well-being are mutually interdependent – and indeed all are closely related to the notion of life quality – but are also highly subjective constructs and impressions of them vary from person to person. However, we can agree that when we have children, we want to offer them access to quality education and as much time outside, aspects so important for their well-being.
Effects of living in a green neighborhood on children
It is well known that green spaces offer to adults emotional, physical and social benefits, especially in urban areas. It has been proven that they promote physiological relaxation and stress relief, along with greater opportunity for physical activity and social interaction. Green areas around the neighborhoods are closely linked to lower levels of air pollutants, noise and excess heat. Researches have shown that, for children, green spaces have notable benefits in developing their cognitive abilities and may positively affect SWM (spatial work memory) and risk-taking behavior. That is because those who live in airier areas, with more green space, are more likely to explore their surroundings in detail. This is also connected to the concept of wayfinding, which is correlated with spatial work memory. Parks and gardens activate stimuli-based attention, which then compensates for goal-oriented attention. Therefore, visual and spatial awareness and the ability to process spatial information are connected to intellectual performances, interconnected with mental health.
In addition, children become aware of the succession of seasons, insects, birds and animals that have their habitat near he related green spaces (a forest, a lake or a forest border), but also are more opened to socialize with other children. The community built around these neighborhoods, that have shopping centers, spaces dedicated for kindergarten, playgrounds, gym or other activities of interest, will be a constant reason to meet and spend time together outdoors.
Green neighborhoods promote sustainability, balance and efficiency
A green neighborhood will always aim to bring together as many amenities as possible for its residents. Children will be encouraged to walk, to explore the surroundings, to exercise outdoors or to learn to ride rollerblades, bicycles and scooters, as long as the space provided is properly arranged with special tracks or a promenade.
With the capacity and mission to integrate the latest generation, sustainable and durable technologies in the construction of green buildings, they will aim to be effective about both costs and natural resources used. Thus, in closed and secure circuits that protect residents (and allow children to be free without the danger of contact with strangers), the homes designed in these complexes will focus on using more natural light during the day, that meaning the inclusion of tall windows with generous glazing. The children will enjoy natural light which will stimulate their good mood, activities (homework, structured or free play) in a bright and welcoming environment increasing their focus, encouraging good eye and brain health. Then, sound insulation is also important in children’s rest, a fact that will influence sleep quality, but also the dynamics of intimacy in family. The thermal comfort, due to a good thermal insulation in order not to waste resources, s well as ventilated facades that will have their say in the quality of the air inside, generating in the little ones a sense of well-being, openness, presence and appetite for knowledge and play.
Children are happier in a green neighborhood - the h4l perspective
Inh4l neighborhoods, children have the opportunity to grow enjoying the advantages of urban areas, but also feeling the lively effects of surrounding nature in their growth and development. A green neighborhood, like h4l THE VILLAGE, for example, has green spaces on 33% of the land plot and is located on the shores of Șaulei Lake, in an area with a lot of vegetation. Also, the other h4l neighborhoods are developed in harmony with nature, preserving and protecting it. As our planet faces increasing threats related to climate warming, it is our responsibility to give our children (the future curators of this planet) the information, guiding and personal examples necessary for them to develop durable behaviors and enthusiastically bring solutions to protect the environment.
Would you like your child to enjoy and feel proud to be part of such a noble initiative?