Lack of Space, Time and Opportunity for Children in the UK to Engage in Physical Play

Lack of Space, Time and Opportunity for Children in the UK to Engage in Physical Play

Findings from the Raising the Nation Play Commission that children were spending less time outdoors as a result of a reduction in school break times, playground closures, safety concerns, and a lack of money for public play facilities should be a major concern.

Physical skills lay the foundations for all aspects of life and learning from coordination and balance to control of eye movements involved in reading, writing and emotional regulation.   It is therefore not surprising that as children spend less time engaged in physical play we are witnessing a rise in special educational needs and a decline in children’s mental health.

While there can be many reasons underlying a picture of less favourable childhood, space, freedom and opportunity to play and develop and engage in physical activity should be one of the fundamental rights of childhood and a hallmark of any civilised society.

-Sally Goddard Blythe, MSc

June 2025

Further Reading:

https://www.compassfostering.com/advice/screen-time-and-child-development