THREE quarters of children spend less time outside than prison inmates, according to a recent study. The attraction of digital technology is one of the reasons that outdoor play is on the decline, with many children choosing gaming and social media over playing outdoors in parks, woodlands and green spaces. But with the hot weather continuing and the summer holidays on the horizon, many parents are wondering how to lure children away from screens and engage them in more healthy activities this summer.

Local social enterprise Get Out More CIC have been running forest schools in Ilkley since 2011 and several hundred local children have enjoyed active and adventurous activities like den building, wood craft and outdoor games at their programmes in Middleton Woods.

Director Annie Berrington sees the benefit of getting children outdoors. Annie said: “Forest schools involve problem solving, managed risk taking, creativity and co-operation through a mix of games, creative and adventurous activities, learning and reflection. After being cooped up in the classroom, it’s great to see children letting off steam, making new friends and growing in confidence through the outdoor experience.

“Our holiday programmes for five to 11-year olds are really popular so we have set up some programmes for older kids too. We know how important it is for children to unplug from their digital life and enjoy physical and adventurous activities, like using tools or playing capture the flag. We have set up this older group so they can take part in age-appropriate activities with their peers”

There are two forest school programmes for eight-13-year olds running this summer in the woods on Ilkley Moor: 30 July- 1 August and 23-24 August. Book via the website www.getoutmorecic.co.uk