Children want to spend more time with parents

Children are keen to spend more time with their parents, a survey by the National Trust has revealed.

The poll, carried out by YouGov, found that one in five eight to 11-year-olds wants to spend more time with their parents.

Watching television and DVDs topped the poll as the most common way for parents and children to spend time together in the UK.

And it seems the desire to be together more is mutual, with just under half (49%) of parents surveyed saying they would like to spend more time together as a family taking a walk.

The National Trust is encouraging families to enjoy more of the outdoors together by taking part in the Great British Walk, organised in partnership with PruHealth.

Simon Pryor, Natural Environment Director at the National Trust, said: "Despite the fact that TV seems to be dominating family life it's really encouraging that children and parents want to spend more time together and that walking is seen as a great way of doing just that.

"Walking is a brilliant way for families to spend time together, get fit and discover the joy of the British countryside.

"And with so many great activities taking place at National Trust properties around the country this half-term there's no better time to get out and go on a walking adventure."

Mumsnet co-founder Justine Roberts added: "It's all too easy to end up spending all family time in front of screens, watching TV or playing video games.

"Spending time with the children outdoors can be just as cheap as well as fun and educational and offers a bit of balance in a world dominated by X-Factor and Fifa 12."

GP, Dr William Bird, said: "Children can benefit hugely from walking in the outdoors. High blood pressure, cholesterol and depression can be detected in children as young as 10, due to inactivity. Spending time with family, in the outdoors, can invigorate even the most TV or X-box-obsessed children."

Free family friendly trails can be downloaded from www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greatbritishwalk