This paper examines the spatial politics of childhood through a longitudinal case study of play space transformations at Ada Ciganlija in Belgrade between 2019 and 2025. Grounded in a socio-cultural theoretical framework, the new sociology of childhood, critical urban perspectives, and poststructuralism, this research explores how shifting urban policies, design logics translated into playground design trends, and socio-economic priorities become materialized in public play spaces and shape their pedagogical potential. The study traces three distinct phases in the play space?s development, from coexistence of traditional and ecological models, through institutional investment in inclusive design, to the rise of commercialized, adult-managed entertainment structures. Using spatial and temporal analysis, supported by field observations and visual ethnography, the research questions whether public care for children and families is challenged by these transformations. Findings reveal a progressive marginalization of pedagogically valuable and participatory play environments, replaced by profit-driven interventions. The study contributes to critical childhood studies in urban context by highlighting how play spaces convey dominant societal messages and materially shape children?s opportunities for autonomy, creativity, and belonging. It argues for reclaiming public play environments as pedagogically meaningful spaces, raising questions about accountability, transparency, and the right to the city in the context of childhood.
Marija Malović (Thu,) studied this question.