According to a new Action for Young Australians Report 'Parks and open space: for the health and wellbeing of children and young people', parks and open spaces are increasingly important for current generations growing up in a world with more structured ‘play’, smaller backyards, higher density housing and rising levels of sedentary behaviour, childhood obesity and depression.

Access to and use of parks and open space is linked to physical, social and mental health benefits for children and young people.

The report, published by The Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY), was based on research undertaken The Centre for the Built Environment and Health within The University of Western Australia's School of Population Health.

The report suggests that "a childhood that is primarily sedentary and spent indoors can lead to poorer physical and mental health outcomes" and concludes "the mere presence of a park or open space does not, however, mean that it is enticing or appropriate for children, and in general parks and open space are often underused or undervalued.

"The evidence surrounding the nexus between parks and open space and children has been somewhat scattered to date. This report and the conceptual model presented sought to consolidate what is currently available. Similarly, there is a diverse array of sectors, agencies, community groups, researchers and policy makers to whom this issue is pertinent; including many whose core business may not be children and youth per se, but whose role impacts on the built and natural environment. There is considerable scope for further communication and collaboration among these players, and untapped synergies between parks and open space that make good design sense, foster a sense of community and help to enhance the health and wellbeing of children and young people in Australia."

The report examines current evidence and points to an integrated approach for optimising use of parks and open space by children and young people in order to enhance health and wellbeing.
http://www.aracy.org.au

Source: Australian Leisure Management