#SummerOutdoors campaign to get kids away from screens

The DfE has launched a new campaign called #SummerOutdoors that will suggest free or low-cost options to keep children entertained with character building activities during the summer break, rather than spending time on their screens.

The campaign's aim is to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors during the summer holidays, and a series of tips and events for kids will be signposted each week.

Education Secretary Damian Hinds said: "We will all have fond memories of the summer holidays – adventuring and playing out with friends. But all too often these days the temptation is for children to play video games, binge on boxsets or only socialise online. I started this year with a resolution to spend less time on my phone – the summer provides the opportunity to repeat this pledge and redouble my efforts.

"Character and resilience are the qualities, the inner resources, that we call on to get us through the frustrations and setbacks that are part and parcel of life. School plays a key role in helping to develop these traits but the activities that young people do over the holidays are also key. They can mean that the child going back to school in September is a little more confident, more willing to give something a go and possibly more likely to bounce back from life’s knocks.

"I really want to inspire children and families to explore the outdoors and understand that keeping children entertained during the summer break does not have to cost an arm and a leg. Getting out and about – whether that is going on a walk, playing a sport or building a den - can bring a range of benefits, from families spending time together to keeping an active body and active mind."

This is part of the DfE's plan to support schools in identifying opportunities that help their pupils build character and resilience. A new framework developed by school leaders and other experts will be published in the autumn and will include a series of benchmarking questions for schools to assess their delivery of character education.