Once a quintessential part of childhood, ‘playing out’ has now become a fond relic. For numerous reasons, the spontaneous outdoor play that once moulded us in our younger years are increasingly rare. Little did we know that ‘playing out’ formed such an important role in our physical and mental development.
Children today face a myriad of challenges when it comes to physical activity. Here’s an overview of the most common challenges:
- Limited Outdoor Play Spaces:
- Urbanisation and infrastructure developments have reduced open green spaces and playgrounds. Many children don’t have safe or suitable places to play outside.
- Increased Screen Time:
- The rise of digital devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers means children often prefer indoor, sedentary activities over outdoor physical play.
- Overstructured Schedules:
- Children’s schedules are packed with academic and extracurricular commitments, leaving little time for free, unstructured play.
- Safety Concerns:
- Concerns about neighbourhood safety, traffic, and stranger danger can prevent parents from allowing their children to play outside.
- Lack of Physical Education in Schools:
- Many educational institutions have cut back on physical education programs due to budget constraints or academic pressures, depriving children of regular, structured physical activity.
- Peer Pressure:
- Children who are less skilled in sports or games might feel embarrassed or excluded, leading them to avoid physical activities altogether.
- Health Issues:
- Childhood obesity, asthma, or other health concerns can inhibit a child’s ability to participate in strenuous activities.
- Lack of Motivation:
- Without the right encouragement or understanding of the benefits, children might not be motivated to be physically active.
- Economic Barriers:
- Participation in organized sports or activities can be expensive, preventing some families from enrolling their children due to costs associated with equipment, uniforms, and registration fees.
- Cultural or Social Norms:
- In some cultures or communities, certain types of physical activity might not be seen as appropriate for all children, or there might be a preference for more sedentary or academic pursuits.
- Limited Skills and Confidence:
- Without early exposure to various physical activities, children may lack the basic neuromuscular skills or the confidence to participate, fearing judgment from their peers.
- Overemphasis on Competition:
- Sometimes, the emphasis is more on winning than on participation, enjoyment, and skill development. This can deter children who might feel they aren’t “good enough” to compete.
Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from parents, educators, policymakers, and communities to create environments and opportunities that encourage and facilitate physical activity for all children.
Here the harsh reality of how kids (this is the US) are spending their away time. credit Statista.
