A Risk Worth Taking? Caregiver Perspectives on Risky Outdoor Play for Toddlers with Developmental Disabilities in an Urban U.S. Setting

Abstract

Background: Risky outdoor play supports autonomy, emotional regulation, and resilience in early childhood, yet little is known about how caregivers of toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities make decisions about such play in urban settings in the United States. The study explored how caregivers in the St. Louis, Missouri metropolitan area perceive the socio-ecological factors shaping their attitudes toward risky outdoor play for children aged 13–47 months with developmental delays or disabilities. Methodology: A mixed methods cross-sectional study design was used. An online survey containing adapted validated items and open-ended questions was distributed through early intervention networks and community organizations. Of 38 surveys initiated, 11 formed the final analytic sample after eligibility and completion exclusions and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and reflexive thematic analysis guided by a socio-ecological model of risk and safety in children’s play. Results: Four themes were identified: (1) recognizing the developmental value of risky outdoor play; (2) negotiating the balance between supervision and independence; (3) navigating external scrutiny and cultural expectations; and (4) managing variability in community infrastructure and institutional support. Conclusion: Results showed caregivers generally valued risky outdoor play but navigated tensions related to developmental readiness, safety concerns, sociocultural expectations, and uneven access to inclusive play environments. Findings highlight the need for equity-focused and disability-informed strategies to promote developmentally meaningful outdoor play experiences.