Overprotection stunts development: Scientists explain why children should be given more freedom Scientists from the University of Exeter and the University of British Columbia have found that children who engage in dangerous play have better physical and mental health and better learning. Such games include climbing trees, downhill biking and swimming in natural pools. "If we focus solely on safety and remove the opportunity for children to explore risks through play, we are doing them a disservice," says child psychology professor Helen David. In her opinion, children should be gradually given more freedom from the age of 8, although they are usually allowed to go to school on their own and play outside from the age of 11 or so. Safe conditions are important: sidewalks, street lighting and appropriate infrastructure. Pravda Gershchenko / Send content / X / Bluesky / Telegram / Threads.

Overprotection stunts development: Scientists explain why children should be given more freedom Scientists from the University of Exeter and the University of British Columbia have found that children who engage in dangerous play have better physical and mental health and better learning. Such games include climbing trees, downhill biking and swimming in natural pools. "If we focus solely on safety and remove the opportunity for children to explore risks through play, we are doing them a disservice," says child psychology professor Helen David. In her opinion, children should be gradually given more freedom from the age of 8, although they are usually allowed to go to school on their own and play outside from the age of 11 or so. Safe conditions are important: sidewalks, street lighting and appropriate infrastructure. Pravda Gershchenko / Send content / X / Bluesky / Telegram / Threads.