The Growing Concern Over Screen Addiction
The impact of excessive screen time, social media addiction, and online bullying on children’s mental health is becoming a major concern for parents, teachers, and experts. Recent reports show a 65% rise in under-18 hospital admissions in England due to severe mental health issues over the past decade.
Child psychiatrist Dr. Emily Sehmer warned in The Guardian that social media and screen addiction are leading to problems like poor sleep, impulsive behavior, emotional instability, and aggression. Many children today spend more time in virtual spaces than engaging in real-life interactions, affecting their development and well-being.
Why a Digital Detox is Essential
With almost all 12-year-olds in the UK owning a smartphone, it’s clear that completely removing digital devices isn’t a practical solution. Instead, children need healthy alternatives that encourage real-world engagement. Research shows that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress, boost mood, and enhance focus.
The Power of Outdoor Activities
Recognizing this need, PGL, the UK’s leading outdoor education provider, has introduced Thrive, a program designed to help children disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. Thrive combines adventure activities like:
✔ Climbing
✔ Abseiling
✔ Archery
✔ Kayaking
✔ Zip-lining
It also includes mindfulness exercises such as yoga, breathing techniques, and forest bathing, which promote relaxation and emotional balance.
Benefits of Outdoor Play for Children
Dr. Kimberley Bennett, a leading child psychologist, explains that just 20 minutes in nature can make children happier, more focused, and resilient. Simple activities like climbing a tree teach problem-solving, perseverance, and risk assessment, which are more valuable than the instant gratification of video games.
Other key benefits of outdoor experiences include:
✅ Improved physical health – Encouraging exercise and reducing the risks of childhood obesity.
✅ Better mental well-being – Nature exposure lowers stress, anxiety, and depression.
✅ Stronger social skills – Outdoor play promotes teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
✅ Increased independence – Helps children build confidence and learn life skills.
Helping Children Develop Healthy Habits
PGL has worked closely with schools to create the Reach framework, which helps children develop:
🔹 Positive relationships
🔹 New experiences
🔹 Confidence in their abilities
🔹 Strong character and resilience
🔹 Better health and well-being
Thrive provides children with practical tools to manage stress and develop emotional resilience, giving them long-term benefits even after their PGL experience.
How Parents and Teachers Can Help
Parents and educators play a crucial role in reinforcing these lessons. Here’s how they can support a healthy digital balance:
📵 Set an example – Children imitate adults, so reducing screen time at home is key.
🌳 Make outdoor activities part of daily life – Walks, cycling, or sports can be fun family routines.
🎾 Encourage hands-on activities – Playing sports, gardening, or building projects can replace screen time.
📴 Limit screen temptation – Keep digital devices out of reach while making outdoor gear accessible.
A Life-Changing Experience for Children
Outdoor programs like PGL Thrive provide children with exciting new experiences that help them discover hidden talents, build confidence, and develop healthier habits. By disconnecting from screens, they can reconnect with the world, their emotions, and their potential.
This digital detox could be the key to shaping happier, healthier, and more resilient young minds. 🚀🌿
