Weekly park trips 'boost children's mental health'

Children who visit a park at least once a week may have better mental health as they grow up, a study says.

Experts at the University of Exeter said they had analysed data from 4,219 youngsters aged between four and 11 taking part in the Children of the 90s Study.

Social-emotional development was measured using questionnaires completed by parents at five points in their child's life and the study found children who were taken to the park at least once a week had better social-emotional development compared to those who went less often, researchers said.

Communities needed "good quality parks that are safe, accessible and welcoming to families from all backgrounds", they added.

It was thought "physical activity, cognitive benefits, social interaction, parent-child interaction and bonding, and play opportunities" helped those with better social-emotional development, researchers said.

Mark Ferguson, of the university, 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, social skills and mental health.

"But, for this to work fairly, communities need good-quality parks that are safe, accessible and welcoming to families from all backgrounds."

He added: "Parks give children space to be physically active, which is known to support mental and physical health, as well as helping adventurous and imaginative play to build confidence and independence.

"We believe parks could be more than places to play, but an important resource for children's healthy development."

The findings have been published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.

Paul Noblet, interim head of external affairs and research at the charity YoungMinds, said: "We know how important community spaces such as parks and playgrounds can be in supporting mental health, and addressing the increasing isolation and loneliness young people today feel.

"Many spaces where young people can connect and build relationships have disappeared from communities across the country. This is a trend that we need to urgently reverse."

He added: "Free, safe and accessible spaces are vital in our communities can help young people make friends, build confidence and develop a sense of belonging, all of which supports mental health."

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