Adults tend to think of kids as "future citizens" -- their ideas and opinions will matter someday, just not today. But kids make up a quarter of the population, so shouldn't they have a say in what the world they'll inherit will look like? Urban planner Mara Mintzer shares what happened when she and her team asked kids to help design a park in Boulder, Colorado -- and how it revealed an important blind spot in how we construct the built environment. "If we aren't including children in our planning, who else aren't we including?" Mintzer asks.

Mara Mintzer: How kids can help design cities

How kids can help design cities

Involving kids in city design reveals untapped creativity, transforming urban spaces into inclusive, fun environments for all.

Children's urban designs emphasize play, nature, and safety, advocating for environments that cater to the well-being of all citizens.

A city designed with children in mind benefits everyone, promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and a sense of community.