For many adults, childhood memories are filled with hours spent playing outside — running around the neighborhood, swinging on playgrounds, or just exploring nature. But for today’s children, outdoor play is becoming less common.

A recent study reveals that a large number of kids are spending very little time playing outdoors, even on weekends. Researchers at the University of Exeter in the UK used data from the “Born in Bradford” project, which has tracked over 13,000 children and their families since 2007. The team focused on 2,568 kids aged 7 to 12, analyzing surveys from the children and their parents. They found that about one-third of children do not play outside after school on weekdays, and one in five does not do so during weekends. Lead researcher Mark Ferguson noted that outdoor play is key for children’s growth. He warned that a deficiency in regular outdoor play may lead to health problems like obesity, anxiety, and depression. What’s more, children who spend more time outdoors tend to have better social and emotional health. They are better at expressing their feelings and building positive relationships with others.

Though the study focused on UK children, its results match research from other countries. A 2023 study showed nearly 40% of American preschoolers play outside less than an hour on weekdays, and 24% do so on weekends. For decades, unstructured playtime has been decreasing among kids in the U.S. and beyond.

There are many benefits to playing outside. It encourages physical activity, helps children make friends, and teaches them about the world around them. On the other hand, too little playtime may lead to long-term health issues. So how to fix this? Experts suggest creating safer and more welcoming public spaces — like parks and traffic-free streets — where children can play freely. Although making these changes isn’t easy, it’s important for children’s well-being. After all, giving kids the time and space to play outdoors is one of the best ways to support their healthy development.

1. 1.What did researchers from the University of Exeter find?

A    Most UK kids play outside daily.

B    Over 30% kids skip outdoors on weekdays.

C    40% of US kids lack outdoor play.

D    Schools should add more outdoor play.

2. 2.What does the underlined word “deficiency” mean in the passage?

A    Habit.

B    Interest

C    Shortage.

D    Development.

3. 3.According to the passage, what are the main benefits of outdoor play?

A    Better academic performance.

B    More creative thinking skills.

C    More independent habits.

D    Physical and social development.

4. 4.What are experts most likely to recommend?

A    Learning about child psychology.

B    Creating child-friendly public zones.

C    Decreasing children’s free time.

D    Increasing creative homework.