Top 40 reasons for going outside - according to kids

Kids have revealed the best things about being outdoors, including rolling down hills, collecting conkers – and getting muddy.

A study of 1,000 children aged six to 10 and their parents found jumping in puddles, climbing trees and making mud pies are also among children’s most-loved outdoor activities.

And despite today’s children being labelled the digital generation and viewed as tech-obsessed hermits by many, 58 per cent of children love being outside - even when it’s raining.

But not all parents share the same view, as 28 per cent admitted they will only venture outdoors with their little ones when the weather is nice.

It also emerged that other popular aspects of getting outside for children include having an ice cream, collecting shells and stones, and looking for tadpoles in ponds.

Peter rabbit campaign

The research was commissioned by publisher Penguin Random House UK, to launch its campaign ‘Peter Rabbit – Friend to Nature’ with ambassador, Laura Brand.

A series of nature-based activities is being shared every Friday in July at www.peterrabbit.com to provide parents with inspiration for enjoying the outdoors with their little ones this summer.

Laura Brand said: “Being outdoors is an exciting place to be – there is so much to explore and to do – the possibilities are endless.

“So, it’s wonderful to see that so many kids have a love of nature and enjoy the open air – a view which might surprise those who think children only want to stare at screens.

“The research has also provided another noteworthy outcome – parents or guardians are clearly integral to their little one’s enjoyment of the great outdoors.”

Other popular outdoorsy activities include building sandcastles, finding colourful flowers, and building dens.

Rolling down hills is another favourite, as are going on nature trails, and finding the biggest tree to climb.

A straightforward run around also goes down well, and so does riding their bike – in fact this emerged as the top thing kids like to do outside.

And few children are likely to turn down the chance to enjoy an ice cream or a tasty picnic – both of which also made the top 40.

Children's developent