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Many of us adults recall our childhoods fondly, with memories of summer BBQs, hide-and-seek in the woods, and long days spent playing outside with friends. New research, however, indicates that younger generations may not be experiencing the same.
A survey of 1,672 UK adults by Alfresia shows a stark contrast between the outdoor experiences that shaped adults’ cherished childhood memories and how today’s children spend their time. Over half of British adults reported that their most treasured memories involve exploring and socializing outdoors, with activities like building dens being remembered fondly by 68% of respondents. Other popular childhood games included hide-and-seek, hopscotch, tag, rounders, and tennis.
Many respondents also recalled summer vacations spent outdoors, enjoying camping trips, seaside visits, picnics, and water fights. More than a third remembered begging their parents for extra playtime outside, with 44% stating they preferred outdoor play over indoor activities during summer breaks.
Yet, more than half of parents today report struggling to encourage their children to spend time outdoors, with nearly a quarter saying their children rarely play outside during free time. Modern children seem less willing to brave the elements, with only 9% of parents believing their kids would play in the rain, compared to almost one in five who would have done so themselves as children.
The primary factor, however, seems to be digital technology. A significant 69% of British parents believe their children spend more time indoors with computer games and screens than exploring the natural world.
According to Nic Jones of Alfresia, the most vivid, lasting memories are often made through outdoor play. Simple activities, like treasure hunts, feeding ducks, or splashing in puddles, are the types of memories that bring joy and are cherished into adulthood.
Access to technology also brings added pressures that prompt children to grow up faster, work more, and stay constantly connected—challenges that weren’t as prevalent a generation ago. It raises an interesting question: will today’s kids remember those hours spent indoors on Minecraft years from now?
