Parents and children don't have time for play

Parents and children are both losing out when it comes to spending quality time playing.

Figures released from a survey commissioned by Play England found that 52 per cent of parents thought that work and other commitments limit the amount of time they can support their children through play.

Half of parents say efforts are hampered by not having enough safe places in their area for children to play safely without an adult.

A whopping 72 per cent of parents want more time to play with their children.

Kids are also feeling time pressured when it comes to creating play. Homework often stopped 25 per cent of children aged 7-8 from playing, at ages when play is important to their development.

To support children’s ability to play, 76 per cent of parents wanted more places for children to play independently and safely, with 66 per cent wanting more flexible working arrangements for parents.

Director of Play England, Adrian Voce said: ‘Children and adults alike are telling us that the pressures of modern life are restricting time for children to play and that this makes them unhappy. Play is vital for children’s health, learning and development. Most importantly, play is fundamental to their enjoyment of childhood; it can’t be taken for granted. A ll of us, not just parents, have a part to play in allowing and supporting children to play.’