PLAY isn’t the same as it used to be according to two in three adults.

A survey carried out by Playful Childhoods has revealed 69 percent of adults in North Wales believe children today have fewer of the same play experiences as when they were young.

The most common reason is due to concerns that technology is impacting childhood, with 59 percent of adults saying that “technology gets in the way” of play. The most missed games from the past are hide and seek, double dutch - skipping rope - and hopscotch.

Mike Greenaway, director of Play Wales, which runs Playful Childhoods and Project Play said: “We wanted to hear from adults and parents about their childhood experiences of play and how they helped to form the adults they have become. Our research confirmed that the rise in the use of technology – amongst other things – has had a negative impact on outdoor play opportunities for children today. "Parents are concerned about this."

The survey - which was completed by 1,027 people from across Wales in May, 23 percent of whom were from north Wales - also explored the benefits of having more free and spontaneous play. Most respondents reported how playing as a child kept them active and healthy which has resulted in them staying more active as an adult. Others said it helped them develop a good imagination.

As a s response Playful Childhoods have launched their Wales wide summer campaign, Project Play, which aims to get families across Wales away from screens and revisiting the simplicity and enjoyment of games of the past and playing outdoors.

Mr Greenaway added:“To launch the project, we wanted to bring back the games that are most missed. It’s brilliant how playing these games brings feelings of nostalgia and reminds us of the pure joy of being a child. Playing is hugely important to children’s health and happiness.

“Through Project Play, we want to remind parents how easy it is to play outdoors with friends and family, with no cost. We’d love to see everyone coming together to make their communities more playful – not just the children, but the adults too.”

For more information visit playfulchildhoods.wales.