Did you know?
- 74% of children spend less time outdoors each day than prison inmates.
- A quarter of children spend less than 30 minutes playing outdoors a week.
- 60% of parents acknowledged there were now more enticing things for children to do indoors, e.g., playing computer games or watching T.V.
We expect these statements are likely to resonate with many households after the Easter holiday break. Children often receive a lot of new toys at the start of the year from Santa, many of which encourage indoor play. This can lead to some quiet time for parents, but it also means children may be spending more time inside. Martin and Jessica (who have 4 children between them) certainly felt the cabin fever over the Easter break! Their ‘go to’ fresh air and upping the steps count is to get out to an attraction where possible. The Eden Project was their attraction of choice this holiday and it was a great way to spend some quality time outdoors with their young children.
Balancing both indoor and outdoor play can help children thrive physically and emotionally as they head into the new year and back to school.
This shift in time spent playing is concerning, but it also presents an opportunity for attractions to step up and rethink how they can help parents out and engage young visitors.
With families increasingly seeking experiences that offer more than just entertainment, attractions have a chance to engage children with fresh, educational outdoor activities. Attractions can create spaces that not only entertain but also inspire curiousity and foster learning.
The Growing Demand for Educational Play
Educational play isn’t just a trend—it’s a game-changer. Studies show that it can improve learning retention by up to 25%. Parents today want more than just fun for their children— they want experiences that engage their minds, spark curiosity, and encourage learning. Attractions that blend education with entertainment have the potential to captivate this growing demand, offering immersive environments where play and learning go hand in hand.
Creating Interactive, Learning-Focused Play Spaces
Imagine an attraction where children can engage with science, history, or being creative through interactive exhibits or hands-on activities. Experiences like this can help children connect what they’ve learnt in school with real-world exploration. By making education part of play, attractions can create environments where kids don’t just have fun—they actively learn and discover.
Locally to us, Curious Cubs Forest School provides a great example, promoting child-led outdoor play in a natural environment. Our ‘CEO’, Elizabeth, is 18 months old now and has started her wilderness journey with cubs at their Ragley Hall site once a week.
Their mission is to help children connect with nature while developing curiosity and confidence. Nature-based activities enhance cognitive, physical, and emotional growth, boosting mental health and fostering resilience.
Kirsty Edwards, Founder of Curious Cubs, explains, “’From my teaching, it became apparent that there’s a generational gap of where children are losing contact with the outdoors and an understanding of our natural world. Something I took for granted growing up and I was lucky enough to spend most days outside as a family. I strongly believe in the fundamental benefits of immersing yourselves in the outdoors, and it’s my mission to share and encourage the next generation.”
Fostering Inclusivity in Play
A truly innovative play space goes beyond just fun and learning—it’s also inclusive. By adding adaptive swings, sensory-rich experiences, and quiet spaces, attractions can ensure all children, regardless of ability, can engage in interactive play. Inclusive environments not only enhance the experience for everyone but also make attractions more appealing to schools and educational groups.
By offering accessible and educational environments, attractions can become destinations that families are excited to visit time and again. You could secure more interest for your attraction from schools and educational groups, as they may see your attraction as a place where fun and learning are seamlessly integrated, supporting their aims as organisations.
An Invitation to Innovate
It’s time for attractions to step away from the traditional playground and think creatively about how they can encourage active, educational play. This shift will not only meet the growing demands of parents but also set attractions apart in a crowded market. By blending fun with learning and ensuring accessibility for all children, creating a win-win situation where everyone benefits.
We work with clients who are eager to transform their play spaces into inclusive and engaging learning environments.
Playtime Reimagined
As the demand for educational and inclusive experiences grows, attractions have a chance to stand out by embracing this shift. It’s time to rethink playtime—how will you captivate young minds and offer educational, accessible experiences that families will return to? The opportunity is waiting.
Written by Natasha Burton.
