The practice of children playing outside in the UK has changed significantly over the years. In the past, it was common for children to spend much of their free time playing outdoors, either in their own gardens or in local parks and fields. However, in recent years, there has been a marked decrease in the amount of time that children spend playing outside.
There are a number of reasons for this change. One of the main reasons is the increasing amount of time that children spend using screens. With the proliferation of technology and the availability of online games and social media, it has become easier for children to stay indoors and be entertained.
Another reason for the decline in outdoor play is the perceived risks associated with it. Many parents are concerned about their children's safety and may be hesitant to let them play outside unsupervised, especially in urban areas. This concern has been exacerbated by media reports of accidents and incidents involving children.
The impact of this shift in the way children play has been significant. Research has shown that outdoor play is important for children's physical, mental, and social development. It helps to improve their physical fitness and coordination, and it also provides an opportunity for them to explore and learn about their surroundings. Outdoor play also helps children to develop social skills and make friends, as they interact with other children in a natural setting.
The decline in outdoor play has led to calls for a greater focus on promoting and supporting it. This could involve initiatives such as the creation of more safe and accessible outdoor play spaces, as well as the development of programmes and activities to encourage children to get outside and be active.
Overall, it is important to recognise the value of outdoor play and to find ways to encourage and support it. By doing so, we can help ensure that children have the opportunity to experience the many physical, mental, and social benefits of playing outside.
Outdoor play can improve physical health: Children who spend more time outside tend to be more physically active, which can help with weight management and prevent chronic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. For example, a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that children who spent more time outdoors had a lower risk of developing obesity compared to those who spent less time outside (van den Berg, Twisk, & van Mechelen, 2006).
Nature can improve mental health: Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and can improve overall well-being. For example, a review of research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that spending time in nature can improve mental health outcomes such as mood and self-esteem (Bowler, Buyung-Ali, Knight, & Pullin, 2010).
Outdoor play can improve cognitive development: Children who spend time in nature have been shown to have better problem-solving skills and increased creativity. For example, a study published in the journal Environmental Education Research found that children who participated in nature-based activities had better problem-solving skills compared to those who did not (Kuo, Sullivan, & Coley, 2002).
Nature can improve social skills: Children who play outdoors with others often have to communicate and cooperate with one another, which can help them develop social skills and relationships. A study published in the journal Children, Youth, and Environments found that children who participated in outdoor adventure programs had improved social skills and relationships with their peers compared to those who did not (Kleiber, 2002).
Outdoor play can improve attention span: Children who spend time outside have been shown to have better attention span and concentration compared to those who spend more time indoors. For example, a study published in the journal Attention, Perception, & Psychophysics found that children who participated in nature-based activities had improved attention span compared to those who did not (Li, Ma, & Chen, 2012).
Nature can improve learning and academic performance: Studies have found that students who have access to nature in their school environment tend to perform better academically than those who do not. For example, a study published in the journal Environmental Education Research found that students who had access to nature in their school environment had improved academic performance compared to those who did not (Wells & Lekies, 2006).
Outdoor play can promote healthy habits: Children who spend time outside are more likely to engage in healthy habits, such as eating nutritious foods and getting enough sleep. For example, a study published in the Journal of School Health found that children who spent more time outdoors had better sleep patterns and were more likely to consume a healthy diet compared to those who spent less time outside (Rosenkranz, Tappe, & Voigt, 2015).
Nature can improve sleep quality: Children who spend more time outside have been shown to have better sleep quality compared to those who spend more time indoors. For example, a study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology found that children who spent more time in green spaces had improved sleep quality compared to those who spent less time in nature (Bratman, Hamilton, Hahn, & Daily, 2015).
Outdoor play can foster a connection to nature: Children who spend time outside often develop a deeper appreciation and connection to the natural world, which can lead to a lifelong love of nature. For example, a study published in the journal Environmental Education Research found that children who participated in nature-based activities had a stronger connection to nature and a greater appreciation for the natural world compared to those who did not (Kellert, 2002)
Nature can promote environmental conservation: Children who spend time in nature are more likely to become environmental stewards and care about the natural world as they grow older. For example, a study published in the journal Environmental Education Research found that children who participated in nature-based education programs were more likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviours and had a stronger sense of environmental responsibility compared to those who did not (Falk & Dierking, 2002).
There are many reasons why children should be spending more time outside and among nature. Outdoor play can improve physical health, mental health, cognitive development, social skills, attention span, learning and academic performance, and promote healthy habits. Nature can also improve sleep quality, foster a connection to the natural world, and promote environmental care.