A study, published in Child Psychiatry and Human Development, led by the University of Exeter suggests that children who spend a lot of time in the adventurous play show fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. Scientists asked parents how often their children engaged in play that was “thrilling and exciting”, where they might experience some fear and uncertainty.
Results of the study come at a time when fewer and fewer children today are venturing out for adventurous play such as climbing trees, riding bikes, jumping from high surfaces or playing out of adults’ sight. The research sought to test theories that adventurous play offers learning opportunities that help build resilience in children, thereby helping to prevent mental health problems.
The team surveyed nearly 2,500 parents of children aged 5-11 years. Parents completed questions about their child’s play, their general mental health and their mood during the first Covid-19 lockdown. The research was carried out with two groups of parents - a group of 427 parents living in Northern Ireland and a nationally representative group of 1,919 parents living in Great Britain.
They found that children who spend more time playing outside had fewer “internalising problems”, characterised as anxiety and depression.
Helen Dodd, Professor of Child Psychology at the University of Exeter, who led the study, said, "We're more concerned than ever about children's mental health, and our findings highlight that we might be able to help protect children's mental health by ensuring they have plentiful opportunities for adventurous play. This is really positive because play is free, instinctive and rewarding for children, available to everyone, and doesn't require special skills. We now urgently need to invest in and protect natural spaces, well-designed parks and adventure playgrounds, to support the mental health of our children.”
Dan Paskins, Director of UK Impact at Save the Children, said, “Every child needs and deserves opportunities to play. This important research shows that this is even more vital to help children thrive after all they have missed out on during the Covid-19 restrictions. More play means more happiness and less anxiety and depression. That's why Save the Children is supporting the Summer of Play campaign which brings together organisations from around the country to pledge their support to enable children to have fun, spend time with friends and enjoy freedom.”
Welcoming the findings, Jacqueline O'Loughlin, Chief Executive of PlayBoard NI said, “This research emphasises the importance of adventurous play. Children and young people need freedom and opportunities to encounter challenges and risks in their everyday playful adventures. It is clear from the research findings that playing, taking risks and experiencing excitement outdoors makes a positive contribution to children's mental health and emotional well-being.”
