Vertical children in Toronto

This MRP seeks to explore the availability of public services and facilities designed to assist the needs of children in Toronto. Specifically examining neighbourhoods located in or near the central core consisting of mostly high-rise style housing, developed post-2000. Research is conducted in three parts: a literature review, an exploration of successful child-friendly initiatives from around the world, and a GIS mapping exercise of four new vertical neighbourhoods in Toronto. The mapping exercise found that while an extensive child-friendly infrastructure network does not guarantee a large population of children, a neighbourhood’s lack of this network severely limits its ability to attract new families. The number of children living in a place is often used as a metric to measure success. A neighbourhood with a thriving children and youth population means an inclusive and sustainable neighbourhood for everyone.