Childhood outdoor pastimes 'in decline'Traditional childhood pastimes of climbing trees and playing conkers are in decline,
according to survey by the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds). It’s a
charitable organisation registered in England and Wales.
The survey shows that people under 34 recall far fewer such childhood outdoor
experiences than their counterparts over 55, according to a survey by RSPB.
People were asked which of 12 outdoor experiences they could remember during
their childhood. The answer included making dens, daisy chains, climbing trees,
playing conkers and feeding birds. Four out of five boys climbed trees and the same
number of girls made daisy chains. But the survey showed the numbers declining
among the newer generations.
Some 15% more of those aged over 55 had
these outdoor experiences in their childhood,
compared with those between 15-34 years old.
Some 92% of the public agreed that
experiences of nature were still important to
children, and 82% agreed that schools should
play a role in providing them to all children.
The survey has highlighted the positive impact of contact with nature on a child's
education, health, wellbeing and social skills. At the same time, there has been a
decline in these opportunities, with negative consequences for children, families and
society - a condition now known as nature deficit disorder.
Mike Clarke, chief executive of the RSPB, will meet parliament members on
Tuesday to urge the government to join other organisations in providing children
with first-hand experiences of the natural environment. … "We believe this guidance
should include the many positive impacts to children of having contact with nature
and learning outside the classroom."
