* Many children do not have access to a safe outdoor play area or garden at home. The media tends to exaggerate the dangers of the outdoors, which influences parental perceptions. They do not see the outdoors as a safe place.
* A growing number of young children are overweight or obese. Children as young as three years old are exhibiting signs that they are at risk of heart disease. This is believed to be due to poor diet and lack of exercise. Children need regular vigorous exercise for a healthy heart.
* There is growing concern about the under-achievement of a significant number of boys. Adults need to plan to support boys in their active learning outdoors. Active boys can feel uncomfortable in early years settings that appear to emphasise sedentary activities. It is possible that the seeds of boys' underachievement in education are sown in these early years.
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