Aussie kids are spending less than two hours a day outdoors
Not so long ago, Aussie kids enjoyed afternoons playing in the streets with their neighbours and friends.
On the weekends, children would ride their bikes or play games in the fresh air and then come home for dinner.
Today’s children are missing out on the sacred experience. In fact, on average they are spending less than two hours a day playing outdoors.
For the remainder of the time, their attention is dedicated to watching TV or immersing themselves in their various technological devices, according to the OMO Dirt is Good Survey found.
Griffin Longley CEO of Nature Play, a group dedicated to encouraging kids to get back into nature, said this is a problem that people need to be made aware of.
"Real play helps kids build creativity, social resilience, fine and gross motor skills and perseverance – which are fundamental skills for flourishing in a fast-changing world," said Longley.
"Play helps cultivate the ability for children to confront, tackle and overcome difficult situations and adapt to challenges and, sometimes, failures. Through this, kids are able to develop self-confidence and become more sensitive to the needs of others.”
"These are clearly hugely beneficial skills that children need to master and own for both their todays and their tomorrows."
Outdoor Classroom Day, on the 7th of September, is a global initiative that aims to see people celebrate the benefits of outdoor play and learning.
If you are concerned about the decline in outdoor activity, you can get involved in the movement.
Do you encourage your grandchildren to play outside? Let us know in the comments below.