Espaços urbanos e primeira infância na Amazônia Legal: caso de Aguiarnópolis no Tocantins/Brasil

Early childhood occurs between gestation and six years of age and is considered the time when stimulation contributes to the constitution of subjectivity, serving as a foundation for development. Thus, this study analyzes the conditions of early childhood and urban public spaces in Aguiarnópolis-Tocantins, a municipality belonging to the Legal Amazon, and whether these are adequate for the target audience. Using a quantitative and qualitative approach, secondary data and non-participant observations were used in the four existing squares and on the city's waterfront, analyzed based on a structured protocol. The results show that childhood in the locality suffers from several deprivations that are revealed in infant mortality, low access to basic sanitation (37%), and of the 485 children, 404 are registered in CadÚnico, that is, 83% are low-income. The squares are unwelcoming environments, with limitations in accessibility, safety and infrastructure, as they are not planned and equipped with adequate toys, shaded areas, security and comfortable furniture. The coastline stands out for the preservation of its original environmental conditions, without significant human modifications, which can be an attraction; contact with nature can be better explored through urban public policies that are sensitive to childhood. It is inferred that it is urgent to rethink local urban planning, prioritizing more inclusive, accessible environments that promote emotional bonds, essential for the well-being and integral development of early childhood, as well as planning investments in sensitive areas such as health, education and basic sanitation.