Children today are being afforded less independence and outdoor playtime compared to previous generations, according to a report from the University of Exeter. Researchers found that children are now, on average, 10.8 years old before parents permit them to play independently outdoors, a notable increase from the average age of 9.7 years for their parents.
This generational shift means children are spending significantly less time playing outside unsupervised. While previous generations might have played for hours until dusk, today's children are allowed only about 25 minutes per week playing in the street. This trend has led to a "generational play gap," as described by Professor Helen Dodd, director of the University of Exeter's new Outdoor Play Research Centre.
The report, based on the British Children’s Play Survey which questioned nearly 2,000 parents and caregivers of children aged 5 to 11, revealed that over half of parents surveyed (56 percent) permit independent play at a later age than they experienced themselves.
The University of Exeter has established the Outdoor Play Research Centre to investigate the benefits of outdoor play and the consequences of insufficient playtime. Professor Dodd stated that the center is founded on the principle that "we must do better for our children" and aims to drive a "step change for children’s independent outdoor play."
Experts at the center attribute this decline in outdoor play to several factors, including a lack of accessible and high-quality play spaces, increased screen time, and concerns about risks associated with busy roads. Professor Dodd has previously advocated for the removal of restrictive signage in public green spaces to encourage more outdoor activities for children.
Research indicates that independent outdoor play is associated with positive mental health outcomes in children aged 5 to 11, including fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression and increased happiness. Earlier University of Exeter research demonstrated that preschoolers who played outdoors more frequently were more likely to maintain good mental health through middle childhood.
Sir Sajid Javid, chairman of the University of Exeter fundraising campaign for the center, emphasized the impact of outdoor play on mental health and well-being. "Time spent playing outdoors has a profound influence on mental health and wellbeing and the centre’s work has the potential to improve the lives of children and adults for generations to come," he said.
Additional findings from a separate, earlier report suggest that evolving working patterns have led some parents to report insufficient time to supervise their children. Concerns about appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions have also been cited as a barrier.
Amber Ogunsanya-William, an inclusive play consultant and NSPCC Champion of Childhood, stressed the developmental importance of play, stating, "Play isn’t a privilege, it’s a fundamental part of development, ensuring children have the tools they need to mature into adults."