Children are not satisfied with the recreational areas where they can play and let off steam, a new study has found.
It says there is need for a healthier and safer environment, more accessible and child-friendly open spaces and a more balanced education, with more emphasis on health, exercise and well-being.
The study also found that eight- and nine-year-olds children in Malta lead the most sedentary life when compared to children their age in 15 other countries.
According to the research conducted by Carmel Cefai, from the University of Malta's Centre for Resilience & Socio-Emotional Health, when not at school, children spent most time doing homework, on the computer or reading for fun. They dedicated the least time to sports and exercise.
Prof. Cefai said such an inactive lifestyle is set to leave an impact on the quality of life, both as children and adults, including high rates of overweight and obese persons.
Childhood obesity is a serious health issue associated with both physical complications and psychological health problems, such as low self-esteem, anxiety and depression, both in the short and long term.
The study also found that the area where children live, including play and socialising places, is an issue of concern for children.
When compared to same age peers in the other countries, Maltese eight-year olds, in particular, are among the least satisfied with the area they live in, the places where they can play and the people they meet.
About a third of the 2,777 children who participated in the study expressed concern about lack of sufficient places where to play or have a good time and one fifth do not feel totally safe to walk in their area, particularly in the case of girls and younger children.
Children from poorer social-economic background appeared to be less satisfied with their local area.
In the survey and the focus groups that followed, concern was raised about the safety aspect due to fear of crime, traffic and strangers, with some children saying they felt constrained to stay indoors.
High-density population, encroaching urbanisation and shrinking green areas and countryside as well as increasing traffic are some of the factors contributing to the lack of public spaces available for children to play, socialise and spend their leisure time.
Those interviewed said they would like more child-friendly and safe public spaces in their own locality where they can socialise, play with their peers and engage in other leisure activities.
The study was conducted among children aged between eight and 10 and among 12-year-olds from selected State, Church and independent schools.
Ten mixed gender students from each school, aged 8-9 and 12-13, were selected to participate in a focus group interview session where the issues were discussed in depth.