Visiting parks every week isn't just fun: it's actually good for kids' minds.
A University of Exeter study found that children aged four to 11 who spent regular time in parks showed better mental health and stronger social skills.
More park time was linked with better emotional wellbeing and stronger social-emotional development.
Researchers call for safe accessible parks
Researchers say having safe, accessible parks nearby is key for families.
Parks give kids space to play, make friends, and build confidence, things that really help them grow up healthy.
As Paul Noblet, interim head of external affairs and research at the charity YoungMinds, puts it, "Free, safe and accessible spaces are vital in our communities can help young people make friends, build confidence and develop a sense of belonging, all of which supports mental health."
The study also points out that as community spaces disappear, many spaces where young people can connect and build relationships have disappeared from communities across the country.
This is a trend that we need to urgently reverse.