Study Reveals Alarming Decline in Outdoor Play Among Children

A recent study from the University of Exeter highlights a troubling trend: one in three children are opting for screen time over outdoor play. The research, published in the journal Wellbeing, Space & Society, reveals that more than a third of children do not engage in outdoor activities during school days, with one in five missing out on weekends. This shift is raising concerns among researchers regarding its implications for children’s health and wellbeing.

According to Dr. Mark Ferguson, the lead researcher, outdoor play is vital for children’s growth and development. He expressed alarm over the decline in outdoor activities, noting that it correlates with a range of health issues, including obesity, anxiety, and depression. “We need to take proactive steps to encourage outdoor activities and ensure children lead healthy and active lives,” Ferguson stated. He emphasized the importance of creating play-friendly environments that are safe and accessible for families.

The study analyzed data from 2,568 children aged between seven and twelve years, part of the long-term Born in Bradford programme. This initiative tracks the health, development, and wellbeing of mothers and children in the city. The findings showed distinct weekly patterns based on ethnicity: children of British heritage tended to play outside more on school days, while those of South Asian heritage were more active outdoors on weekends.

Professor Rosie McEachan, who directs the Born in Bradford programme, underscored the mental health benefits of outdoor play. “This study shows how important it is for children’s mental health to get off their screens and play outdoors after school and at weekends,” she remarked. McEachan pointed out that while Bradford boasts many parks and green spaces, local streets are equally crucial. “We need to ensure they are safe and welcoming spaces, free from traffic and pollution,” she added.

The researchers utilized a “total difficulties score” derived from questionnaires completed by parents to measure children’s social-emotional skills. They concluded that outdoor play fosters these skills through physical activity, socialization, and adventurous engagement with their surroundings.

The implications of this study are significant. There is a clear need for community initiatives aimed at promoting outdoor play. Simple yet effective measures, such as improving urban design and reducing traffic hazards, can create safer and more inviting spaces for children.

The paper, titled The Association between Park Visits, Outdoor Play and Child Social-Emotional Competency in a Multi-Ethnic, Urban Cohort, serves as a call to action for parents, educators, and policymakers alike. As screen time continues to dominate children’s after-school hours, the findings underline the urgent need for a collective effort to restore outdoor play as a fundamental part of childhood.

For further information, visit the University of Exeter at www.exeter.ac.uk or learn more about the Born in Bradford research programme at www.borninbradford.nhs.uk.