Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

• leila Oveisi ¹
• akbar Pourfaraj ²
• mohammadamir oveisi ¹

¹ Department of Management and accounting - University of Allame Tabataba'I (ATU), Tehran, Iran.

² Department of Management and accounting - University of Allame Tabataba'I (ATU) , Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Key Highlights
- Examination of child-friendly tourism in commercial and recreational complexes.
- Identification of 39 key indicators for child-centered design and planning.
- Application of a mixed-method approach (Thematic Analysis and FMEA) for prioritization.
- Recommendations for private and public sector collaboration to enhance child tourism.
- Emphasis on comprehensive design to improve the family and child experience in urban environments.
 

Introduction

Children, as the bridge between past and future generations, are highly vulnerable and possess unique needs, attitudes, and expectations. The rise of child-friendly tourism is a response to the modern need for structured leisure opportunities, influenced by lifestyle changes such as the shift from extended to nuclear families, increased migration and urbanization, apartment living, and reduced play spaces for children.
Urban expansion, population growth, and evolving patterns of leisure and consumption have made commercial and recreational complexes integral to tourism and urban entertainment. However, inadequate design and failure to address children’s needs in these spaces not only hinder tourism development and community welfare but can also lead to economic, cultural, and social setbacks. Poorly designed spaces contribute to behavioral issues, dissatisfaction among visitors, and diminished overall experiences.
Given the competitive nature of the tourism industry, businesses are increasingly focusing on child-centered products and services. This study aims to analyze the feasibility of child-friendly tourism indicators in the Persian Gulf Commercial and Recreational Complex in Yazd, one of the largest urban centers, by identifying key factors influencing child-centered space development.
 

Theoretical Framework

Urban tourism, particularly in commercial-recreational environments, serves as a catalyst for economic, cultural, and social development. From a child tourism perspective, these spaces should not only be safe but also stimulating and participatory.
Previous research highlights the significant impact of child-centered environments on learning, personal growth, and social interactions. Theories from child psychology and urban design emphasize the importance of appropriately scaled spaces and environments that cater to children’s physical, psychological, and social needs. This study employs frameworks related to social justice, participatory design, and sustainable tourism to analyze the development of child-friendly spaces.
 

Research Methodology

This study employs a mixed-method approach consisting of two main phases:

Qualitative Phase:

Methodology: Thematic Analysis using Clarke and Braun’s six-stage framework.
Data Collection: In-depth interviews with 31 experts in child tourism, architecture, and psychology.
Outcome: Identification of 39 indicators categorized into seven key themes:
Infrastructure
Management
Safety
Education
Socio-Cultural Aspects
Visual Design
Recreation

Quantitative Phase:

Methodology: Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) for prioritizing indicators based on risk assessment.
RPN Calculation:
Data Collection: Expert evaluations of the 39 indicators using a 5-point Likert scale.
Outcome: Prioritization of key indicators to develop practical policies and strategies.
 

Results and Discussion

Findings indicate that commercial-recreational complexes hold significant potential to become child-friendly spaces, provided that comprehensive planning addresses children’s specific needs. The main indicators identified include:
Physical Infrastructure: Easy accessibility, child-friendly restrooms, safe play areas, facilities for children with special needs, and surveillance systems.
Management and Planning: Development of guidelines for child-centered spaces, child-friendly marketing, and incentive policies for families.
Safety and Security: Installation of safety barriers, regular sanitation, and electronic monitoring systems.
Education and Personal Growth: Implementation of creative educational activities, social skill development programs, and interactive play opportunities.
Socio-Cultural Needs: Promoting social interactions through group activities, parental involvement in recreational programs, and fostering local cultural values.
Visual Design: Use of bright colors, child-appropriate scales, and appealing lighting.
Recreation and Events: Organizing competitions, festivals, and artistic activities to strengthen children’s sense of belonging.
Prioritization of Indicators Using FMEA:
Development of comprehensive child-centered management guidelines (RPN: 370.58)
Design of appropriately scaled child spaces (RPN: 368.69)
Creation of interactive spaces to enhance place attachment (RPN: 346.99)
The results suggest that intelligent and holistic design can significantly improve the family and child experience while increasing the economic and social appeal of these complexes.
 

Conclusion

This study underscores the necessity of developing child-friendly tourism in urban environments and commercial-recreational complexes. These spaces play a critical role in fulfilling the needs of families and children, fostering social interactions, learning, and leisure activities.
Key Recommendations:
Comprehensive Child-Centered Design: Spaces should be designed with children’s physical, psychological, and social needs in mind, ensuring accessibility, safety, and engagement.
Strategic Management and Planning: The development of child-focused management policies and long-term planning is crucial. Public-private sector collaboration can enhance resource allocation.
Investment in Safe and Sustainable Infrastructure: Ensuring the presence of safety measures, sanitation, and inclusive play areas can improve family participation and satisfaction.
Enhancing Social and Cultural Engagement: Organizing events such as competitions, festivals, and educational programs can enrich children’s social experiences and encourage parental involvement.
Economic and Social Benefits for Local Communities: Well-designed commercial-recreational complexes can attract tourists, stimulate local economies, and create employment opportunities.
Long-Term Sustainability: As children’s needs evolve alongside technological advancements, continuous investment in research and innovation is vital to maintaining the appeal and functionality of child-friendly spaces.
The case study of the Persian Gulf Commercial and Recreational Complex in Yazd demonstrates that with careful planning, these spaces can be transformed into child-friendly destinations. While steps have been taken to integrate child-friendly features, further improvements in management, design, and investment are necessary.
This research advocates for urban planners and policymakers to prioritize child-centered design and management as a strategy for enhancing urban quality of life and promoting sustainable tourism. Effective collaboration between government entities, private sectors, and child tourism experts can create inclusive and sustainable environments that increase family satisfaction and boost global competitiveness.

Keywords

• Child Tourism
• Urban Infrastructure
• Child-Friendly Design
• Commercial-Recreational Complex
• Yazd

Main Subjects

• Urban Tourism