Our everyday environments and lifestyles mean that the natural growth and development that occurs when children play isn’t happening. Although children in the UK are now generally taller and heavier, their physical strength is decreasing. The mental health of a generation is at risk. Obesity in children is at epidemic levels and increases in life expectancy have stalled.
When everyday play is replaced by highly restricted lives – indoors, on screens and under the constant surveillance of adults – children’s bodies, brains, muscles and minds simply cannot do what they are designed to do. Lack of play leaves children mentally and physically unprepared to cope with life. This affects them in childhood and throughout the rest of their lives.
It is a matter of urgency that play is prioritised – for two important reasons:
- the significance of the harm caused by this lack of play
- the huge benefits that will be gained if we develop environments and everyday lifestyles that support children’s play.
