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Children who visited parks and playgrounds at least once a week throughout childhood had fewer emotional and behavioral difficulties than those who visited less frequently, according to new research involving more than 4,200 children.
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The findings suggest that regular access to outdoor play spaces may support children’s mental health and social development.
The research, published in Epidemiology and Community Health, analyzed data from 4,219 participants in the University of Bristol’s Children of the 90s study, which tracks how childhood experiences influence health and development.
Researchers at the University of Exeter found that children who visited parks more frequently had lower scores on a measure of emotional and behavioral difficulties, even after accounting for socioeconomic status and family adversity.
For pediatric nurses, school nurses and other healthcare professionals, the findings highlight how children’s everyday environments may influence mental health and healthy development.
More Park Visits Linked to Fewer Emotional and Behavioral Difficulties
Researchers measured children’s social-emotional development using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, which assesses emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity and inattention, and peer relationships. Lower scores indicate fewer emotional and behavioral difficulties.
Children who visited parks at least once a week across the periods studied had average scores 1.19 points lower than those who visited less frequently, after researchers adjusted for other factors.
The study also found that children had fewer emotional and behavioral difficulties during periods when they visited parks more frequently. Those who visited parks more often overall also tended to have better social-emotional outcomes.
Lead researcher Mark Ferguson of the University of Exeter said the findings suggest that regular park visits could offer families a practical way to support children’s mental health.
“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.
“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.”
Access to Parks May Help Address Health Inequalities
The researchers also examined how park use varied by family background.
Children from more advantaged families tended to visit parks more frequently when they were younger. As children grew older, however, that pattern shifted, with some children from less advantaged families visiting parks more often.
The study also found that weekly park visits became less common as children grew older. Nearly 74% visited parks at least once a week during early childhood, compared with approximately 28% during preadolescence.
Because parks and playgrounds are generally free or inexpensive, researchers suggest they could help reduce inequalities in children’s development, provided families have access to safe, welcoming and well-maintained spaces.
What the Findings Mean for Nurses
For pediatric and school nurses, the research offers another perspective on how children’s environments may influence their emotional well-being.
When discussing physical activity, mental health and developmental needs with parents and caregivers, nurses may also want to ask whether children have access to safe parks and playgrounds.
However, the study does not establish that weekly park visits directly improve mental health. Researchers also noted that the findings were based on a specific UK population, and additional research is needed to determine whether similar associations exist in other communities.
For nurses working with children and families, the findings offer another reason to consider how access to safe outdoor spaces may influence children’s mental health and development.
