Children living near green spaces ‘have stronger bones’ - @Guardian theguardian.com/environment/… Children with more green space near their homes have significantly stronger bones, a study has found, potentially leading to lifelong health benefits. Scientists found that the children living in places with 20-25% more natural areas had increased bone strength that was equivalent to half a year’s natural growth. The link between green spaces and stronger bones is likely to result from higher levels of physical activity in children who live near parks, as this spurs bone growth. The connection was strongest for green spaces with trees, which the scientists said may be because these were more attractive places to visit. Previous research has found greater access to green spaces increases physical activity in children. Studies have also discovered multiple benefits for child development, including a lower risk of being overweight, lower blood pressure, higher IQs and better mental and emotional wellbeing. Green spaces are also linked to better physical and mental health in adults. Woodland walks are estimated to save £185m a year in mental health costs in the UK. “So the real public health message from this study is that urban planners can make stronger bones of children, and that has long-lasting consequences.” 🌳🏡🌿🍁🍂🪵🚶🏾‍♀️👩‍🦽🏃🏼‍♀️🚴🏿🤸🏾‍♂️🪁🛝🥏 #ActivePlay #PhysicalLiteracy #PhysicalActivity #ActiveWellbeing #ActiveTravel #Playce #Splace #Parks