Barcelona is rolling out an ambitious innovation project aimed at rethinking how children use playgrounds, with the installation of 20 smart sensors across the city.
The devices, which record movement patterns without capturing images or sound, will be rotated across ten playgrounds in different neighbourhoods. By generating metadata, the sensors will allow planners to analyse how children play, with the goal of designing spaces that are more shaded, greener and better adapted to both climate conditions and urban surroundings.
City officials say the project is part of the wider ‘Play Plan for Public Space 2030’, which seeks to move from a model of scattered playgrounds to one of child-friendly urban design. The strategy aims to create areas that not only encourage physical activity but also provide comfortable resting spots for families and inclusive facilities for children of all abilities.
This is not Barcelona’s first foray into play-focused innovation. Previous initiatives have included thermal sensors to monitor heat exposure, wearable devices to track activity levels, and nearly 10,000 surveys of playground users.
The scheme reflects a broader effort to make Barcelona a healthier, more liveable city, particularly as climate change intensifies.
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