1 in 10 Kids Play Outside Once a Week or Less, New Study Shows

Let’s be honest, it’s not always easy to get the kids outside, especially as fall gives way to chillier, darker days. Between busy schedules, unpredictable weather and the lure of cozy indoor activities (and screens), outdoor play can easily slip down the priority list. But new research is giving parents even more reasons to bundle up and head outdoors a little more often.

According to a new report from the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, nearly 1 in 10 parents of kids ages 1 to 5 say their child plays outside only once a week or even less. While most parents (62%) said their kids get outside almost daily, or at least a few times a week (29%) experts caution that outdoor play shouldn’t be treated as an occasional bonus, but as a key part of healthy development.

Inside or out, the good news is kids are still finding ways to move, imagine and explore. The poll found that 88% of parents say their child engages in physical play like running, jumping or climbing on a typical day, while 68% participate in make-believe or pretend play, 54% play with objects like puzzles or blocks and 65% enjoy looking at or listening to books.

Still, the report found that many parents are leaning on screens to keep little ones busy, with nearly half of parents of toddlers and 78% parents of preschoolers using phones or tablets to entertain their children in the car, in public or while multitasking at home. While there’s no shame in surviving a dinner out with a little screen time, experts suggest balancing it with more active, child-led play whenever possible.

Play, the study notes, isn’t just “fun and games.” It’s how kids learn and grow physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. Pretend play builds creativity and emotional awareness and good old-fashioned block or puzzle play boosts fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities.

Outdoor play in particular comes with extra perks as it promotes better physical health, supports eye development and gives kids a chance to take healthy “risks” that build confidence and independence. That might look like climbing higher on the play structure or racing down a hill. Parents, understandably nervous about scraped knees or bumps, can still support this by staying close but letting kids test their limits safely.

So, as daylight savings time approaches and temperatures drop, remember that whether it’s a 10-minute walk down the street, backyard exploration or park pit stop, making time for outdoor play does wonders for your child’s confidence, creativity and joy.