Calls for increased outdoor learning

The report, carried out by the National Forest, has indicated an increasing dependence of children on the '˜virtual world' at the expense of real life learning.

Psychologist, Dr Sam Wass, said: '˜There is no doubt that, given the choice, many children prefer to stay indoors, exploring virtual worlds, than go outside and explore the real world.'

The survey revealed 78 percent of parents believe more should be done to ensure outdoor learning is part of the national curriculum.

Responses  suggest more than half of parents believe increasing use of technology is causing children to disconnect with nature. Nearly a third feel technology is having a detrimental impact on their child's ability to interact and only 14 percent said children prefer playing outdoors than being online.