Regular weekly trips to the local park could support better mental health in children as they grow, new research has suggested.
In research called the Children of the 90s Study, experts from the University of Exeter examined data on 4,219 children from the ages of four to 11. T
hose experts emphasised that communities require “good quality parks that are safe, accessible and welcoming to families from all backgrounds”.
Social-emotional progress was tracked using questionnaires, completed by the children’s parents, across five distinct stages of their childhoods.
The study revealed that youngsters visiting parks at least once a week showed enhanced social-emotional development compared to those who went less often.
This finding was attributed to “physical activity, cognitive benefits, social interaction, parent- child interaction and bonding, and play opportunities”, the team determined.
The study revealed that youngsters visiting parks at least once a week showed enhanced social-emotional development (Getty/iStock)
Mark Ferguson, of the University of Exeter, said: “Our research suggests encouraging children to visit parks and playgrounds at least once a week could be a practical way to support their emotional wellbeing,
