Children Need More Than Screen Limits - They Need Nature, Says Woodlands.co.uk

Following the Government’s announcement of new restrictions on social media use for under-16s, Woodlands.co.uk is calling for a stronger focus on providing children with meaningful alternatives through outdoor learning, nature-based play, and time in woodland environments.

The woodland ownership company says the debate should move beyond screen reduction alone and consider how children can be supported to develop curiosity, confidence and independence through real-world experiences.

Research has consistently shown that time spent in natural environments can support children’s mental wellbeing, increase physical activity, and improve attention and concentration. Studies also suggest that regular access to green space can reduce stress and support cognitive development.

Woodlands.co.uk believes activities such as forest school, camping, wildlife observation, bushcraft and conservation work can play an important role in helping children develop lifelong interests away from digital platforms.

Anton Baskerville of Woodlands.co.uk said the focus should be on both reducing screen time and expanding opportunity. “Reducing children’s access to social media is only part of the picture,” he said. “We also need to think seriously about what fills that space. Nature offers children something increasingly rare, the freedom to explore, get bored, and discover their own interests without constant digital direction.”

Forest school approaches, which use outdoor environments as a setting for play-based learning, have grown in popularity across the UK in recent years, with advocates highlighting benefits including resilience, confidence and social development.

Lisa Bradford, founder of Willow Bushcraft, an outdoor education organisation said structured outdoor experiences can play a key role in reconnecting children with practical skills and confidence.

“When children spend time outdoors in a guided but open environment, you see a real shift,” she said. “They become more confident, more curious, and more willing to try things independently.”

The comments come as many parents seek alternatives to screen-based entertainment, particularly during school holidays when usage levels typically rise.

Steve Sangster, who owns Billet Wood in Kent with his wife Anne-Marie, said regular time in woodland has shaped how his family spends time together. “We’ve never tried to remove technology completely,” he said. “But when the children are in the woods, they naturally engage with what’s around them rather than screens.”

His daughter, Lilian Sangster, said the woodland has helped her develop new interests.

“Every visit is different,” she said. “We look for wildlife, check cameras and follow tracks. It doesn’t feel like learning, but you end up discovering a lot without realising it.”

Woodlands.co.uk said the announcement on social media restrictions presents an opportunity to rethink how children spend their free time and to encourage greater access to nature-based experiences.

They added that while restrictions may reduce screen use, long-term benefits will depend on ensuring children have access to engaging outdoor alternatives that support curiosity, creativity and independence.

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Editors notes

Founded with a mission to make woodland ownership accessible and enjoyable, Woodlands.co.uk offers private woodlands for sale across the UK. The company provides resources and guidance for new owners to explore creative ways of managing their woodlands for personal and community benefit. Whether for conservation, leisure, or environmental education, Woodlands.co.uk empowers individuals to steward and protect their woodlands for generations to come.