Research says 'Let kids run wild'

National Trust survey reveals it's time to get those nippers outdoors

The National Trust has published research revealing just how sedentary modern kids have become. The findings have initiated a nationwide campaign to get youth outdoors this summer. Its poll discovered that:

♦ 38 per cent of children now spend less than an hour a day outdoors

♦ Almost a quarter (23%) of youngsters spend more than 14hrs a week sat in front of a TV or computer screen

♦ 87 per cent of parents wish their children spent more time outside

♦ Yet one in four won’t allow them to do the things they did as children because they are worried about safety

♦ While only one in four children has played tennis in the past year, twice as many have played the sport on computers such as Nintendo Wiis or Xboxes

♦ Fewer than one in 20 (4 per cent) said that playing computer games was their favourite childhood memory.

To combat the trend, the National Trust has begun a series of ‘Wild Child’ events around the country, from bug-hunting to wilderness exploring, where children can borrow a backpack with equipment like binoculars, identification books and bug pots. Aimed at getting kids to begin their own adventures, you can find out about events near you by going to their dedicated website.

www.wild-child.org.uk