Outdoor play activities 'improve community spirit'
04/08/2010 A large majority of British parents believe that letting their children take part in outdoor play activities improves community spirit, the results of a new survey show.
Some 81 per cent of adults in the survey, which was conducted by ICM on behalf of Play England, said that the community spirit is enhanced when kids play outside.
Also, 70 per cent think that when children participate in outdoor play activities it makes an area more desirable to live in.
The survey found that almost three quarters of children would like more time to take part in outdoor play activities in their local area. But, despite this, 55 per cent of parents worry that the noise of kids playing outside will upset the neighbours.
Adrian Voce, director of Play England, said: "Children with regular access to playable spaces are much more likely to enjoy childhood and grow up healthier and happier."
He added that the UK must "build parents' confidence" when it comes to letting kids get involved in outdoor play activities.
Research conducted by Play England and The British Toy and Hobby Association earlier this year found that the average child in the UK spends just 70 minutes a day playing.
Some 81 per cent of adults in the survey, which was conducted by ICM on behalf of Play England, said that the community spirit is enhanced when kids play outside.
Also, 70 per cent think that when children participate in outdoor play activities it makes an area more desirable to live in.
The survey found that almost three quarters of children would like more time to take part in outdoor play activities in their local area. But, despite this, 55 per cent of parents worry that the noise of kids playing outside will upset the neighbours.
Adrian Voce, director of Play England, said: "Children with regular access to playable spaces are much more likely to enjoy childhood and grow up healthier and happier."
He added that the UK must "build parents' confidence" when it comes to letting kids get involved in outdoor play activities.
Research conducted by Play England and The British Toy and Hobby Association earlier this year found that the average child in the UK spends just 70 minutes a day playing.
