Many modern parents are too time-poor for outdoor physical activity.

New data highlights how families’ hectic lives are ­affecting kids, with 36 per cent of full-time working parents saying they don’t have enough leisure time.

Over a quarter set a bad example by putting little effort into playing sport or going to the gym.

The World Play Shortage report, commissioned by ­global appliance maker Beko, surveyed 10,100 people across 22 countries.

The findings reveal young Aussies have four hours less playtime a week than their parents did.

Play expert Hyahno Moser said Queensland was in crisis over kids’ falling physical and emotional health.

“We need to protect their right to participate in unstructured outdoor play to not only foster a healthy relationship between them and screens but protect them from health and wellbeing issues,” the Nature Play Queensland program manager said.

Leisha Venables makes sure she takes daughter Eva Rose, 3, to the playground. Picture: Jamie HansonSource:News Corp Australia

Leisha Venables works full-time, but makes it a priority to take daughter Eva Rose, 3, to the playground.

“There are 48 hours in a weekend; surely parents can find a spare hour? It’s a great way to connect and show the kids you are involved,” she said.

Of the 22 countries surveyed, Denmark was the most playful with more than 33 hours of leisure time per person in an average week, and Bolivia the least playful with less than 12 hours per week.

Shock numbers

5 per cent ..... kids who have been taken to a live sports game in past year

18.5....... hours of playtime today’s kids enjoy per week

22.5...... hours of playtime for previous generation

78 per cent ... adults who aren’t interested in exercising

54 per cent ..... parents who haven’t taken kids to playground in past year

36 per cent ... parents who haven’t take kids to a park in past year

Source: The World Play Shortage Report

Originally published as Family tradition that’s gone out the window