New research from the University of British Columbia and Queen Maud University College has found that children who engage in more adventurous, risk-taking play make faster and more effective decisions in traffic situations.

The study followed 424 children aged seven to 11 in Canada and Norway using immersive virtual reality environments. Children first took part in a challenging “playground” involving balancing structures and heights before being tested on how they crossed busy virtual roads.

Researchers found that children who took more risks during play were quicker and more effective at assessing traffic gaps and crossing roads safely, without behaving more recklessly overall.

Lead researcher Dr Mariana Brussoni said the findings challenge assumptions that keeping children safe means removing all risk from their environments. Instead, the study suggests that opportunities for adventurous play may help children develop judgement, confidence and decision-making skills that transfer into everyday life.

The findings add to a growing body of evidence around the developmental value of “risky play” — play that involves challenge, uncertainty and opportunities for children to test their own limits.

The research also has relevance for urban play provision. In cities like London, where children’s independent mobility and access to informal outdoor play space have declined over recent decades, adventure playgrounds continue to provide opportunities for children to experience challenge, freedom and managed risk within staffed environments.

Researchers also found cultural differences between children in Norway and Canada, with Norwegian children generally more willing to take risks during play . The study suggested this was due to stronger social acceptance of outdoor independence and adventurous play.

The full study can be read via UBC News.