I have always loved spending time in parks with my family and friends. It's a joy to gather in these spaces, relish the outdoors, and watch children of all ages play and enjoy themselves. However, lately, I've noticed a concerning trend in many parks across London (and England)—play areas that once entertained older kids and teenagers are becoming less inclusive due to changes in the types of play equipment available.

In many parks, the robust metal and wood structures that once presented a thrilling challenge to older children have been replaced by plastic equipment designed predominantly for younger kids. This new transformation often leaves older kids feeling sidelined and uninspired. Play areas that were inclusive for various age groups are now predominantly focused on younger children, with slides too short, swings that don't swing high enough, and equipment that lacks the durability needed for older, more adventurous play.

This shift doesn't just affect the children; it impacts entire families and communities. Older children, no longer engaged by the equipment, have fewer reasons to join family outings to the park, which should be a space for everyone. Parks should be havens where children of all ages can play, learn, and grow—not just within the safety net of early childhood but beyond it as they grow older.

Creating inclusive parks for older kids isn't just about equipment; it represents a commitment to community and healthy living. We need to take action to ensure that our parks cater to a wider range of age groups. By including more challenging and durable structures made from metal and wood, providing larger swings that can soar higher, and incorporating taller slides, we can bring the excitement back for older children.additionally, this is encouraging kids of the new generation to stay inside more , and have less physically activity leading to more sedentary lifestyles and worse physical health, not to mention most kids who don't have entertainment like parks use devices to fill their free time making out kids more screen dependent because we failed to give them the free, accessible entertainment they deserve.

The transformation of parks shouldn't mean that we lose what makes these spaces so valuable—a place where every child can feel included and engaged. Join me in advocating for these important changes to our local parks. Let's urge local councils and city planners to consider the needs of older children in park designs and renovations.

Please sign this petition to make parks in London (and England)  more inclusive for older kids. Together, we can help create play spaces that inspire, engage, and bring joy to children of all ages once again.