Playing Outside on the Decline
I was shocked to discover that British Children now only play outside for an average of 49 minutes a day, compared to 127 minutes spent playing indoors.* With children, even as young as 6 years old, preferring to watch television or play on a smartphone or tablet (61%) than spend time outdoors (22%). Almost half of the children (41%) blame the weather for their reluctance to go outside, with twenty percent describing outdoor activities as too boring. Over half of parents (54%) want their children to spend more time outside but struggle to find the inspiration for activities. Typical outdoor activities are also on the decline as over half of children have never been on a nature trail (51%) or been camping (57%) and over three-quarters (80%) have never tried orienteering.
Persil, Roald Dahl Literary Estate and Quentin Blake – Messy Adventure
This Summer (from 1st July 2015) specially-branded Persil Small & Mighty wash packs will be available in store inviting families to embark on their own Roald Dahl** interactive stories. For the first time Roald Dahl’s characters Matilda, The Witches, James (from James and the Giant Peach), and a Giant Grasshopper, are just some of those who will come together for an adventure the child can star in, and actively encourages them to get outside. It is free to play and can be accessed on smartphones or tablets at www.persil.co.uk/Roald-Dahl. The majority (72%) of parents believe that technology can stimulate a child’s imagination and just under half (49%) believe that children would play outside more in technology had a more enhanced role.
The interactive story allows every child to be the hero of their own Roald Dahl story, enhanced by the iconic illustrations of Quentin Blake. The child will feature in the story as a customisable Roald Dahl themed avatar featuring completely new Quentin Blake illustrations for a fully personalised experience. The children are in control as they are challenged by the characters to complete messy challenges and tasks. The path they take will determine their unique and personal journey.
Of course once your children have got messy then Persil’s Small and Mighty will be there to help get their clothes all clean again. Persil will also be giving families the chance to win an exclusive Roald Dahl inspired Messy Adventure this summer.
We were invited along to preview My Messy Adventure and all the children had a great time. My 7 year old son loves Roald Dahl and has read most of his books. It was great for him to hear them come to life and interactive with them. We were also given food related to the Roald Dahl stories to enhance the experience. My Messy Adventure also help developed skills in using technology which is quickly advancing.
To see my photographs from the day visit the Pinkoddy Facebook Page
* Based on a study by Persil of 6-12 year olds.
** Ten percent of all the Roald Dahl royalties are donated to the two Roald Dahl charities – Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity and The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre.
I was invited to a preview of My Messy Adventure. Travel expenses and food were covered and my son was given a goody bag with some Roald Dahl goodies and a bottle of Persil Small and Mighty.