Understanding the influence of neighbourhood-level factors on a child’s growth and development is important, especially from an equity perspective, yet significant evidence gaps remain. This study aims to review and summarise the literature on the direct and indirect relationships between individual built environment attributes, neighbourhood typologies, and various child development outcomes. Examining the causal pathways linking these attributes to developmental outcomes, the research also focuses on exploring these relationships within population groups experiencing disadvantage. This research provides a comprehensive understanding of how the places where children live impact their development, thereby informing equitable policies and interventions designed to foster healthier and more inclusive communities.
The key findings of this research reveal a significant increase in both the scope and volume of studies on the built environment and early childhood development. There is a growing recognition of the built environment’s impact on early child development, along with a rise in the use of advanced spatial (Geographic Information Systems (GIS)) measurement tools and a focus on socio-emotional development. However, few studies address issues of causality. This research introduces a new framework to provide a structured approach for analysing and interpreting the complex interactions within the built environment with a focus on promoting equitable outcomes for all children.
The findings of this scoping review can be used to inform the design and implementation of interventions that address the specific needs of children in diverse neighbourhoods, particularly those experiencing disadvantage. Future research informed by this review will strengthen the evidence-base and knowledge needed for developing and trialling real-world solutions in policy and practice. Possible policy and practice implications by creating a better understanding of the interactions between built environment attributes and early childhood developmental outcomes and identifying ideal thresholds of built environment attributes such as the amount of private versus public green space required to benefit young children’s development. Practitioners can use these findings to create more inclusive and supportive environments that promote early child development. The adoption of the new framework for understanding the mechanisms through which the built environment influences early child development can lead to more effective policies and practices to support the healthy development of all children.