Manitoba·Video

Where are all the kids?

Kids aren't playing outside like they did in previous generations. Turns out screen time and social media aren't solely to blame. CBC Manitoba's urban living columnist Ben Farr discovers what's keeping kids indoors and what the city can do to help.

In the 2nd edition of My Hometown, contributor Ben Farr discovers why more kids aren't outdoors playing

Ben Farr · CBC News · Posted: Aug 19, 2024 6:00 AM EDT | Last Updated: August 19

Leg and sneaker of school age kid playing on playground structure. Walking across wooden plank bridge. — Kids like outdoor play to be exciting and challenging, with chances to climb high and run fast, researchers have found. (CBC)

Why don't kids seem to play outside as much anymore?

It's not just about screen time.

That's one of the revelations in the second edition of My Hometown, CBC Manitoba's urban living column by Winnipegger Ben Farr.

In this edition, Farr investigates why kids aren't playing outside like they did in previous generations.

Sure, kids are attached to their devices and online a lot more today, but that isn't the only factor at play. So what is happening?

Parental worries about safety and crime are a factor but are those fears realistic? And how can the city encourage more outdoor play? Farr finds some answers.

My Hometown will appear regularly on all CBC Manitoba platforms. It explores life in Winnipeg, how we live, what works, what doesn't, and how we can make the city better.

How screen time isn't solely to blame for empty playgrounds

3 months ago

4:08

CBC Manitoba urban living columnist Ben Farr says perceptions of safety and crime, as well as play structures that are too easy, are at play when there's a lack of play.