Parents foot bill for outdoor play activities
26/02/2010 Parents in Scotland regularly contribute money to schools to allow their children to enjoy the benefits of outdoor play activities, according to a new study.
The report by the Scottish Parent Teacher Council (SPTC) found that on average £10 per child is being given to schools in the country to supplement the purchase of resources.
Outdoor play equipment was said to be one of the top areas where money is spent, as were activities and outings, plus computer equipment.
According to the organisation, parents should not have to foot the bill for this equipment.
Eileen Prior, executive director of SPTC, said: "Traditionally parent fundraising has provided funding for the extras in schools - things like special outings and events - but it can be drawn from these figures that parents are often footing the bill for equipment that could be considered core."
It was recently suggested by Parentline Plus that outdoor play activities are essential for child development. The organisation said that they "provide the opportunities for children to build relationships with other children and adults."
The report by the Scottish Parent Teacher Council (SPTC) found that on average £10 per child is being given to schools in the country to supplement the purchase of resources.
Outdoor play equipment was said to be one of the top areas where money is spent, as were activities and outings, plus computer equipment.
According to the organisation, parents should not have to foot the bill for this equipment.
Eileen Prior, executive director of SPTC, said: "Traditionally parent fundraising has provided funding for the extras in schools - things like special outings and events - but it can be drawn from these figures that parents are often footing the bill for equipment that could be considered core."
It was recently suggested by Parentline Plus that outdoor play activities are essential for child development. The organisation said that they "provide the opportunities for children to build relationships with other children and adults."
