One in three parents in the UK believe giving their kids at least 30 minutes of outdoor play every day can significantly improve their life.
According to a new survey by Alfresia.co.uk having fun outside can result in improved behaviour, sleep or mood in their children.
47 % of parents questioned in the study said they found it considerably easier to get their offspring to go to bed following an outdoor activity.
A quarter of parents revealed their kids enjoy playing outside so much that they struggle to get them to come back inside once they have begun to play outdoors.
And 12% say their children are even keen to carry out activities outside even when it is raining.
On top of this, 64% of the 1,152 people surveyed believe technology, such as laptops, smart phones and tablet devices are overused by their children.
A third of this group felt so concerned about their children’s tech habits that they have already or are considering implementing rules to regulate the amount that such gadgets are used each day.
Nic Jones from retailer Alfresia.co.uk
said: “It is encouraging to see the positive effects that outdoor play is having on children and that these huge benefits can be seen from as little as 30 minutes of play in the fresh air.
“As well as being a great source of exercise, it encourages group play and creativity and even solo outdoor activities provides a great deal of stimulation for children and allows them to be at one with nature and their environment.
“For parents who are having difficulties in getting their offspring outside, it’s a good idea to create a specific outdoor area for them – whether that be a den, tree house or a simple space filled with toys and some seating.
“Plan games, like obstacle courses and treasure hunts, keep it simple with traditional ball games or even bring favourite indoor activities like arts and crafts outside. The options are endless and it doesn’t need to be a costly investment.”