Playing outdoors with other children is an important part of growing up, it has been claimed.

According to the Irish Preschool Playgroup Association (IPPA), many parents are hindering their children's development by wrapping them up in cotton wool.

"Children thrive on the kinds of challenges that naturally occur when playing outside," said Irene Gunning, the organisation's chief executive.

The IPPA has launched a new "play manifesto" in a bid to encourage parents to get outside with their kids this summer, the Irish Times reports.

"Outdoor play has practically disappeared from our streets in a single generation and we are now in danger of holding our children captive indoors," the publication noted.

Speaking earlier this year, Doreen Jones, senior parent support co-ordinator at the charity Parentline Plus, said playing outside helps children to develop "an emotional literacy" and learn how to make and keep friends.

It enables them to socialise and make sense of the world, she added.

Written by Donal Walsh

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