Over cautious parents costing kids important playtime

11 Aug 2008

New research suggests that parental concerns over child safety are preventing kids from playing as freely as they should for both physical and mental development.

A study conducted by YouGov on behalf of Record RSS found that 83 per cent of parents agree that children are missing out on unsupervised playtime as a result of growing safety fears.

Douglas Belfield, director at playground designer Record RSS, said: "Incorporating risk is an important aspect of growing up. We develop from learning by our mistakes and pushing our boundaries and this has to start in childhood.

"Government intervention and our nanny state is damaging our children's development. This will have a lasting impact as they go through life."

Sue Palmer, author of Toxic Childhood, believes that communities need to do more to ensure today's children and future generations have a right to safe, outdoor play.

The government is set to invest £235 million in playgrounds over the next three years.

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