Children play on average 1 to 2 hours a day outside, but that varies greatly by age, season, and living environment. The recommended outdoor playtime is higher: health experts advise children to at least to be physically active for 60 minutes a day, where outdoor play should constitute a large part of that. In 2026, we see that many children still do not meet that standard, especially in urban environments.
Whether you are a parent, teacher, or policymaker: outdoor play is a topic that really matters. In this article, we explain how much outdoor playtime children need, why they play outside less than they used to, and what you or your municipality can do about it.
How many hours do children play outside per day on average?
On average, children in the Netherlands play 1 to 1,5 hours a day outsideThat sounds reasonable, but research shows that this depends heavily on the day of the week, the season, and the availability of playgrounds in the neighborhood. During the summer holidays, children play outside considerably more than on school days.
If you compare that to a generation ago, outdoor playtime has dropped significantly. Screens, busy schedules, and the lack of safe, challenging play areas play a major role in this. On weekdays, many children simply do not meet the recommended standard of 60 minutes of active movement.
Why is playing outside so important for children?
Playing outdoors is important for the physical, social, and mental development of children. Exercising outside strengthens muscles and bones, improves motor skills, and helps maintain a healthy weight. In addition, outdoors, children learn to cooperate, solve problems, and cope with disappointment: skills that cannot be acquired behind a screen.
Playing outdoors also has a positive effect on children's concentration and well-being. Fresh air, daylight, and free play reduce stress and help children sleep better. Unstructured outdoor play, where children decide for themselves what to do, is particularly valuable for brain development.
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How much outdoor playtime do children need by age?
The recommended amount of outdoor playtime varies by age group. In general, the younger the child, the more freedom of movement and play space they need to develop properly. Below you will find an overview by age group:
| Age | Recommended outdoor play time per day | Type of activity |
|---|---|---|
| 2 to 4 years | At least 3 hours of active movement (spread throughout the day) | Free play, running, climbing |
| 5 to 12 years | At least 60 minutes intensive | Cycling, sports, playing with peers |
| 12 to 18 years | At least 60 minutes moderate to intense | Sports, skateboarding, cycling |
Toddlers and preschoolers need the most freedom of movement and benefit most from unstructured play in a safe outdoor environment. For older children and teenagers, it is important that the outdoor space is challenging enough; otherwise, screens quickly take over.
Why do children play outside less than they used to?
Children play outside less than before due to a combination of factors: more screen time, busy school schedules, less free time, and a lack of attractive playgrounds in the neighborhood. Increased traffic congestion also plays a role, making parents less likely to let their children play outside alone.
Furthermore, many playgrounds are simply not challenging enough for children over the age of 8. A seesaw and a slide won't keep a teenager occupied for five minutes. If the outdoor space offers no challenge, it is logical that children seek entertainment indoors. The solution does not lie in banning screens, but in creating outdoor spaces that truly grab attention.
Which outdoor play opportunities stimulate children the most?
Outdoor play opportunities that stimulate children the most are places where they find challenge, freedom, and social interaction. Think of climbing structures, skate parks, inclusive playgrounds that are accessible to all ages and multifunctional sports grounds where children can decide for themselves what to do.
Research and practical experience show that children stay outside longer if the environment offers variety. A place where you can ride a balance bike, but also skateboard or do a BMX lap, appeals to a broad group. This leads to more social interactions and a longer stay. View our completed projects for inspiration on what is possible in your municipality.
The combination of challenge and accessibility is important in this regard. A playground that is just as fun for a 4-year-old as for a 14-year-old automatically attracts more children and ensures that they return.
How can municipalities encourage more outdoor playtime?
Municipalities can encourage outdoor playtime by investing in challenging, accessible, and multifunctional outdoor spaces that meet the needs of different age groups. This starts with mapping out which places already exist and where the gaps in the play offerings are.
Concrete steps that municipalities can take:
- Replace outdated playground equipment with multifunctional sports areas that appeal to multiple age groups.
- Ensure safe walking routes and bike paths to playgrounds, so that children can go outside independently.
- Involve schools and neighborhood associations in the design of new playgrounds
- Choose sustainable, low-maintenance solutions that remain attractive in the long term.
- Make playgrounds accessible for children with disabilities, including users of manual wheelchairs.
A good outdoor play area is not a luxury, but an investment in the health and well-being of young people. Municipalities that invest in this structurally see positive effects in the long term on the livability of neighborhoods and the health of their residents.
How Velosolutions helps with more outdoor playtime for children
At Velosolutions, we believe that every neighborhood deserves a place where both children and adults enjoy being outdoors. Our permanent asphalt PumpTracks are designed for all ages, from a toddler on a balance bike to a teenager on a BMX. They are accessible to manual wheelchair users, meet Dutch safety standards, and last for at least 20 years. Wearing a helmet is mandatory on Velosolutions PumpTracks.
What we offer:
- Fully custom design that suits your location and target audience
- Supervision from design to completion, including annual inspection and maintenance — also available via a maintenance contract
- PumpTracks that meet the needs of children of all ages and levels
- Part of a worldwide network with more than 500 realized PumpTracks
- The ambition to realize at least 10 PumpTracks in every municipality
Would you like to know what we can do for your municipality or organization? Discover who we are and read more about our approach, or request a no-obligation consultationWe are happy to think along with you.
