Social isolation, inactivity and lack of outdoor play: this was the bleak reality facing many children’s lives during the heights of the pandemic. With playgrounds out of bounds, nurseries shut and play dates banned, the effect on children’s mental and physical health was likened to a ‘ticking time bomb’.
But the upshot of the pandemic is that it has given the world a glimpse into what an unhealthy childhood looks like – and hope for a future where children’s right to play outdoors, freely, is rightfully restored.
Fresh air; connecting with nature and engaging in adventurous play are now high on the list of priorities for parents when choosing a nursery place for their child. Forest School and outdoor learning have seen a rise in popularity, and settings are investing in their outdoor areas, equipping them for risk and challenge.
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