‘Risky’ play in the school yard makes for happier kids, says study

Turns out there might be nothing wrong with some rough play.

Children could be happier if they spend their breaks in playgrounds or yards that are 'risky', according to a study from New Zealand. Researchers at the University of Otago conducted a study which saw eight schools keep their usual playgrounds and another eight schools make their playgrounds more adventurous with more 'risks'. These 'risks' included more physically vigorous activities, less rules and increasing the number of 'loose parts' in the area, such as tires, according to the Daily Mail. Children, parents and teachers who were involved in the study were surveyed after a year and again after two years. The study concluded that the kids who had played in the 'riskier' playgrounds were happier than the others and had played with others more. It also found that these children were pushed more often, but that they were less likely to report bullying to a teacher.