Parents’ Perceptions on Children’s Free Play and Independent Mobility in Finland

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to examine Finnish parents’ views and generational differences on free play and independent mobility (CIM) and to explore influential factors of them in a context where children’s play opportunities and environments are still relatively well preserved. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews with ten parents currently raising primary school-aged children in Finland who also spent their own childhood in the country. The findings reveal a complex interplay of multiple factors that influence children’s free play and CIM, including neighbourhood environment, social environment, digital devices and social norms, and these factors shape parental everyday conflicts and parenting styles. Participants’ narratives suggest that their trustful parenting style, which is based on the perceived value of play and independence and shared experience with their children, can support free play and CIM. This study also highlights the need for critical examination of the use of digital tools that affect both children’s free play and parental perceptions.