Thaindian News

London, June 8 (ANI): A generation of ‘cotton wool kids’ who have their outdoor activities restricted should instead be encouraged to take appropriate risks during activities, according to new guidance.

It also says that children should know how to tackle a growing ‘risk-averse’ culture, which undermines healthy development.

The guidelines, entitled Go Outdoors, have been issued by The Children’s Commissioner and the Scottish Institute for Residential Childcare, reports The Scotsman.

“How can a child learn to prevent or avoid accidents, and become wiser in the process, if they’re not given the chance to take risks and put their learning into practice,” Tam Baillie, Scotland’s Commissioner for Children and Young People, said.

“A risk-averse and bureaucratic environment, which leads to cotton wool kids, breaches children’s rights and undermines healthy development.

“Professionals working in childcare and education don’t want to see young people’s lives restricted in this way but fear of litigation has got in the way,” Baillie added.

Children’s minister Adam Ingram said: “Outdoor play offers a range of benefits to children and young people. It helps their health, wellbeing and development, including building their social skills, self-confidence and self-esteem.”

“All children, but especially those in care, should be able to experience and enjoy outdoor activities without staff fearing being blamed or sued in the case of something going wrong,” Ingram added. (ANI)