A few days ago, I wrote about my thoughts on the design of public toilets, particularly when we try to make them more inclusive. Today I wonder: if we are worried about children, why don’t children have their own space? They have been sharing adult spaces. So while we are still deciding how to design a space to suit everyone, why don’t we give children a dedicated zone first? Our children don’t have to wait until the debate is over to have a space of their own.

After thinking about it a little more, I started wondering whether there might be another way so I thought of a simple floor plan.

It is not a new building concept, nor does it require completely different infrastructure. The idea is simply to reallocate the existing space and functions, separating areas where privacy matters, keeping accessible and multi-use facilities which are important for the sole uses of many people as they require with most privacy and convenience, and creating a dedicated zone for children.

Even in a much smaller facility, such as a public park toilet, the same thinking could be applied on a smaller scale. Giving up one or two conventional cubicles to create a multi-purpose accessible room and a small children’s zone could be enough to provide additional support, without significantly changing the overall footprint of the facility.

For the Kids Zone, I took inspiration from the EYLF framework and its approach to designing environments that support children’s wellbeing, safety, agency and independence. Rather than organising the children’s space around gender, the idea is simply to make it a space designed around children.

Parents could remain nearby, with a dedicated space where children can use the facilities independently while still having parental support when needed. And if their children are not using the Kids Zone, there would simply be no reason for other adults to enter that space.

Would this work for everyone? Probably not.

But as a parent, I think I would feel more at ease knowing that there was a dedicated, child-focused space designed with children’s needs in mind. As an adult, I can manage a little inconvenience if necessary, but when it comes to my child, safety comes first for me.

So… do you still think this is just my grandma’s toilet with different signboards? hihihi