In a startling discovery, the first national survey of play among preschool-aged children in Britain has revealed that girls engage in less outdoor play compared to boys, even at the tender age of two. This concerning finding has researchers worried about the potential long-term implications for girls’ physical and mental health.
The study, conducted by a team from the universities of Exeter and Cambridge, surveyed over 1,100 parents and caregivers of children aged two, three, and four across England, Scotland, and Wales. Participants were asked about the time their children spent playing in various locations, including at home, in gardens, on streets, in playgrounds, and in green spaces.
Researchers were surprised to see gender differences in play emerging at such a young age. “It’s concerning that at age two we’re already seeing these differences in the time that boys and girls play outdoors in nature,” said Dr. Kathryn Hesketh, co-lead of the study at the University of Cambridge. “We didn’t expect to see this pattern as early as age two, and given the link between playing outdoors and physical activity, girls may already be at a disadvantage very early in life.”
The Importance of Outdoor Play for Children’s Development
Outdoor play is crucial for children’s physical, cognitive, and social development. Playing in nature allows children to be more active, engage in adventurous activities like climbing trees, and connect with the natural world. These experiences help foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and emotional resilience.
Professor Helen Dodd from the University of Exeter, who co-led the study, emphasized the significance of adventurous play for children’s mental wellbeing:
“When children play in nature, they’re more likely to be active, to play in an adventurous way like climbing trees, and to connect with and learn about nature. Problems may arise if children have not had enough opportunity to play adventurously and to learn about managing feelings of uncertainty and anxiety in a playful way.”
– Professor Helen Dodd, University of Exeter
Inequalities in Play: A Cause for Concern
The study also revealed other inequalities in children’s play habits. Preschool-aged children from minority ethnic backgrounds were found to play less outdoors compared to their white counterparts. Similarly, children in urban areas spent less time playing outdoors than those in rural settings.
These disparities in play opportunities could exacerbate existing health inequalities, as highlighted in the report: “The results highlight inequalities in play even in the youngest age group, which may exacerbate existing inequalities in health.”
The Rise of Indoor Play Centres
Interestingly, the study found that the most adventurous play was often associated with indoor play centres rather than outdoor environments. These commercial play facilities have grown in popularity in recent years, possibly due to their ability to provide exciting play experiences while overcoming barriers to outdoor play such as traffic, weather, and safety concerns.
However, while indoor play centres offer a fun and stimulating environment, they should not be seen as a complete substitute for outdoor play in nature. Children still need opportunities to explore the natural world, develop their sense of adventure, and build a connection with the outdoors.
Addressing the Gender Gap in Outdoor Play
The findings of this study underscore the need for parents, educators, and policymakers to promote outdoor play for all children, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or geographical location. By providing equal access to green spaces, playgrounds, and nature-based activities, we can help ensure that every child has the opportunity to reap the benefits of outdoor play.
Additionally, challenging traditional gender roles and encouraging girls to engage in adventurous play from a young age could help bridge the gender gap in physical activity levels. Parents and caregivers can play a vital role in fostering a love for the outdoors and supporting their children’s exploration of nature.
The Way Forward
As a society, we must recognize the importance of outdoor play for children’s healthy development and take steps to address the inequalities highlighted by this study. By creating safe, accessible, and inviting outdoor spaces, promoting gender equality in play, and encouraging children to connect with nature, we can help ensure a brighter, healthier future for all.
The shocking revelation that girls as young as two engage in less outdoor play than boys should serve as a wake-up call for us all. Let us work together to close this early gender gap and give every child the opportunity to thrive through the power of play.
