To mark the launch
of #LoveParks Week today, we are calling on parents across the UK to make time
to visit their local green space with their child, as research shows a
whopping 75% of children would like to spend more time outdoors.
The research reveals
that children in Britain visit outdoor spaces an average of three times a week,
with four out of five parents (80%) admitting they would like their child to
spend more time outside.
When it comes to
barriers to children spending time outdoors, the top reason given by parents
was that they don’t have time to take their children to the park.
As a result, classic
outdoor skills children often learn in the park could be on the decline, with
the research indicating that over a third (34%) of children have never learnt
to ride a bike, and almost half (49%) have never climbed a tree.
LoveParks Week celebrates and highlights
not just major UK parks, but unexpected areas of greenery, ensuring outdoor
space is accessible for all.
Chief
Executive Allison Ogden-Newton said: “Parks
and green spaces are an essential part of childhood. It’s great to see
that, despite recent concerns about digital distractions, only 19% of
children prefer playing on devices to exploring the great outdoors.
“I’m delighted that
three quarters of our children actually want to spend more time outside, so I
urge parents to help make that happen by frequenting their local green space.
Love Parks Week is the perfect time to make a date with nature, take part in a
host of activities, and explore your green space.”
