Exeter's Outdoor Play Research Centre launches to study children's play habits
Its research investigates changing trends in children's outdoor play
The University of Exeter has launched a new Outdoor Play Research Centre to explore significant changes in children's outdoor play habits.
The Centre, funded by a philanthropic gift, aims to address the "generational play gap" through scientific research and collaboration with various organisations, according to Professor Helen Dodd, Director of the Outdoor Play Research Centre.
A recent study by the Centre revealed that children now begin unsupervised outdoor play at nearly 11 years old - more than a year later than their parents did.
The study's findings are based on the British Children’s Play Survey, which involved nearly 2,000 UK parents and caregivers of children aged 5 to 11.
Results showed independent outdoor play now begins at an average age of 10.8 years, compared to 9.7 years for the previous generation.
The delay is significant, as researchers highlight links between outdoor play and improved mental health and wellbeing.
Experts at the Outdoor Play Research Centre cited several contributing factors, such as lack of quality play spaces, increased screen time, busy roads, and changing social norms.
"We must do better for our children"
A published report also shows diverse patterns in children's play behaviour.
It reveals over half of surveyed parents/carers allow their children to engage in independent play later than they did themselves.
For children aged 5 to 11, less than half of their play occurs outdoors, and street play averages less than 25 minutes per week.
Regional variations were observed: while outdoor play generally decreases with age across Britain, it notably increases in London around age nine.
The Centre will use scientific methods to explore why British children play independently outdoors less.
It aims to improve children's play by providing evidence that informs policy, working closely with national organisations and charities.
Professor Dodd explained: "Many of us have fond childhood memories of playing out until the street lights came on, enjoying our first taste of freedom. Yet today’s children are missing out on those same experiences.
“Importantly, we know that independent outdoor play is linked to better health and wellbeing, including lower anxiety, more positive emotions and more physical activity; some of the key childhood health challenges that we currently face.
"The Outdoor Play Research Centre is being founded on the principle that we must do better for our children. We want to see a step change for children’s independent outdoor play. We will conduct the scientific research needed to drive this change and work in partnership with a wide range of organisations to deliver it.”
Sir Sajid Javid, Chair of the University of Exeter fundraising campaign and former UK Health Secretary, highlighted the Centre's potential for broader societal benefits.
He said: “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.”