The NEWS-Y is a 67-question instrument that measures perception of neighborhood design features that may be related to physical activity in youth. The tool assesses residential density, land use mix (including indices of proximity and accessibility), street connectivity, infrastructure for walking/cycling, neighborhood aesthetics, and traffic and crime safety.  There are separate self-administered versions for parents and adolescents (aged 11 and above).

The NEWS-Y instrument was derived from the NEWS-A, adaptations were made based on interviews with youth and parents, and it was tested in the Active Where? Study.