Research finding outdoor play has a beneficial effect on the development of young people’s social and emotional skills shows that children do not play outdoors after school, while fifths do not play on weekends.
The University of Exeter study examined data from 2,500 children from seven multiethnology children born in Bradford’s research program.
Based on information from surveys completed by children’s parents, researchers measured children’s social and emotional skills using “Total Difficulty Score,” a screening tool that helps identify potential behavioral or emotional problems in children and adolescents.
Researchers found that outdoor play has a positive effect on children’s social and emotional skills. This means that I was able to understand, manage and express my feelings and behaviors, and I was able to interact with and build relationships with the world around me.
The study, funded by the Medical Research Council and scheduled to be published in the Wellbeing, Space & Society Journal, also discovered a variety of patterns of outdoor play based on ethnicity. White British Heritage children played more outside during their school days, while South Asian Heritage children played more outside over the weekend.
The findings also suggest that children living in less-fortunate communities benefit from outdoor play than people in less-fortunate communities.
Dr. Mark Ferguson, the lead researcher, said: “There is established evidence that outdoor play is reduced by many, and this is concerning as it is linked to a variety of health issues, such as obesity, anxiety and depression.
“We need to take proactive measures to encourage outdoor activities and ensure that children live healthy and active lives. Simple measures such as creating playful residential areas and safer urban environments where families can relax, exercise, socialize and play are important to remember cultural differences, engage with the community and make these initiatives a success.”
Professor Rosie McEachan, director of the Born in Bradford programme, said:
“We are fortunate to have many beautiful parks and green spaces in Bradford, but these findings show that the local streets we live in are equally important spaces for children, and we need to make sure they are safe and welcoming spaces free from traffic and pollution.”
Ann Longfield, a former children’s committee member who is now the executive chair of Young Live Centre, has called on the government to establish a new national play strategy.
She said: “Playing is one of the most powerful tools to increase children’s social skills, physical activity, happiness and confidence. However, many of our children often spend their most precious years alone on their mobile phones while their health and well-being is deteriorating.
“We must break the barriers that keep many children from playing as part of our education in schools, in our local parks and in our communities. Play must once again become part of childhood.”
Earlier this year, a report by the Raising the Nation Play Commission concluded that traffic dominated streets, loss of playground funds and a decline in youth clubs prevented children from providing children with the space they need outside their homes, leading to a major loss of outdoor play and independence.
Last year, the Guardian reported that reducing external space at schools and reducing time for play has had a detrimental effect on children’s health and physical health.
A government spokesman said £100 million was invested in schools and community sports facilities, while the National Educational Natural Park Scheme was helping schools turn their basis into a greener space.
“We recognize the important importance of play and access to nature as we work to fulfill our mission to create the healthiest and happiest generation for our children,” the spokesman said.
