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Experts in play are proposing to eliminate “no ball games” signs as a way to encourage children to engage in physical activities outside of screen time. The Raising the Nation Play Commission is advocating for the removal of these signs, which they believe contribute to an “anti-play culture” that forces children indoors and onto digital devices. This call to action comes as outdoor play in England has witnessed a 50% decline in activity over the past generation due to concerns about traffic, crime, and limited public spaces for young people.
The commission’s year-long inquiry has resulted in the suggestion of various measures to promote playtime, including the implementation of a national ban on “no ball games” signs, updating planning policies to involve children in new developments, safeguarding play during school breaks, and opening up school playgrounds to the community outside of school hours. Additionally, they propose raising the digital age of consent to 16 and banning the use of phones in schools to further encourage physical play among children. According to the commission’s chair, Paul Lindley, England has created significant obstacles for children to engage in play, emphasizing the need for a shift towards fostering more tolerant and playful communities.
One example provided in the report highlights over 7,000 signs restricting play for more than half a million children in London alone. Some local councils have started to dismantle these signs to address concerns about decreasing physical activity among children. For Samantha and her young son Chester in Blackpool, having a safe playground away from traffic is crucial for them. They value the free and accessible space where Chester can play without restrictions, underscoring the importance of local play areas for families in the community.
The report also reveals that more than 400 playgrounds closed in England from 2012 to 2022, indicating a decline in play spaces for children. Organizations like Blackpool Better Start have been working to revitalize underused parks and green spaces to provide safe environments for families to engage in play. Efforts to transform these areas have been met with positive responses from residents who feel a sense of ownership and connection to these communal spaces. Overall, the push for more child-friendly neighborhoods and the removal of unnecessary restrictions on play aim to restore the essence of outdoor play for children across England.
In the realm of education, the commission advocates for ringfencing playtime during breaks and lunchtime in schools to ensure that children have adequate time for physical activity. Some schools, like St Ambrose Catholic Academy in Liverpool, prioritize play by guaranteeing an hour of quality play every day for their students. The headteacher, Tracy Moorcroft, emphasizes the importance of play in nurturing students’ aspirations and skills for the future. While there are discussions about introducing “always-active uniforms” in schools, some educators express reservations, emphasizing the need to balance play with academic rigor to prepare students for life beyond school. By advocating for protected playtime, the commission aims to build resilience, teamwork, and cooperation among students, facilitating holistic development in educational settings
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