Why the Great Outdoors Might Be the Secret to a Happier Childhood 🌿
Remember racing to finish your dinner so you could run back outside before the sun went down? Playing kirby with your mates, building dens in the woods, or challenging someone to a game of conkers? If that sounds familiar, you're not alone — and chances are, you’re part of the 70% of parents who say outdoor play made your childhood better.
At Feather Down Farms, we’ve always believed in the power of nature to reset, reconnect, and recharge — for both kids and grown-ups. So, we wanted to dig a little deeper into what outdoor time means for today’s families. The results of our latest research? Eye-opening, to say the least.
Outdoor Adventures: A Thing of the Past?
Our survey revealed a striking contrast between generations. A whopping 77% of Gen X parents (those born between the mid-60s and early-80s) remember spending most of their time outside. But today? Not so much.
In fact, 87% of parents say their children play outside less than they did growing up, and over half admit their little ones only venture out 1–2 times a week (outside of school). Instead, digital entertainment and scheduled activities have taken centre stage.
We’re not saying sports clubs and video games don’t have their place — but is something important being left behind?
Why Outside Time Matters More Than Ever
Sure, screen time has its perks (and let’s be honest, it’s a lifesaver some days). But when it becomes the default, kids may be missing out on more than just fresh air.
Child psychologist Professor Sam Wass explains:
“Child-led, unstructured free play is vital in stimulating imagination and creativity. It helps children become more self-sufficient and supports key physical needs like vitamin D through sunlight.”
What’s more, our research found that only 1 in 4 parents know about the impact limited outdoor time can have on a child’s immune system — and over 10% weren’t aware of any potential effects. That’s why this conversation is more important than ever.
Reset the Routine with Longer Days and Brighter Skies
Vicki Baggott from Feather Down Farms shares her own experience:
“As a parent myself, I totally understand how easy it is to fall into digital habits — screens are convenient when life is busy. But it’s also incredibly rewarding to carve out just a little time outdoors. Don’t overthink it — the simple things, like rolling down hills or collecting sticks for a den, are often what kids remember most.”
Meet the Digital Dial: Your Family's New Favourite Tool
To help make the shift from screen time to green time even easier, we’ve launched the Feather Down Digital Dial — a free online hub packed with:
- A family-friendly screen-time calculator
- Practical advice for managing device use
- Offline activity inspiration for every season
It’s your go-to destination for planning a digital detox that’s actually doable — and fun!
👉 Check out the Digital Dial here
Let this spring be the season you swap swipes for sunshine, and screens for scenes from the great outdoors. At Feather Down Farms, we’re here to help you create unforgettable, mud-splattered, joy-filled memories — the kind childhood is made of.
Ready to unplug and reconnect? We’ll see you outside. 🌼
