"We used to be out playing from morning until night," many will say ruefully.

And a report in the British Medical Journal supports the feeling that children are becoming couch potatoes, either watching TV or playing computer games.

But one of the major reasons children's lives have changed is, simply, that life has changed.

High-profile reports of abduction and "stranger danger" may have given parents a distorted view of the real risks. But combined with the more common danger from cars, it's understandable why parents should think it's safer to have their kids in front of the telly.

Twin threats

The twin threats from paedophiles and traffic have even been blamed for England's dismal performance on the cricket field.

Earlier this summer the NSPCC called on local authorities to reintroduce park wardens to create safe spaces for children to play.

Spokesman Gerry Tissier said: "We want to encourage families and children to go out and use open spaces.

Some tips for parents

"But we know many parents have become increasingly scared to let their children out. The way forward, we feel, is particularly for local authorities to reassure parents by making open spaces safe for children.

The NSPCC has also issued 10 points parents should consider to keep their children safe outdoors:

1. In most situations, children under about eight-year-old shouldn't be out alone, especially in busy towns. Even when out playing with other children, they need to be kept in the care and sight of an adult or a much older child who is mature and trustworthy.

2. Never leave young children in unsupervised play areas in shops or parks. And don't leave them alone in the car or outside a shop, not even for a few minutes.

3. If you're in a crowded place, keep children in a pram or buggy, hold hands tightly, or use reins. Don't walk far ahead of small children who can't keep up.

4. As soon as children as able to understand, teach them their full name, address, and telephone number.

5. You can start teaching children simple rules about personal safety from as young as two or three. Tell them clearly that they must never go off with anyone, not even someone they know, without first asking you or the adult who is looking after them.

6. Teach older children safe ways of crossing roads, going shopping and asking adults for directions, and let them practise these with you until you are sure that they have understood. When they are mature enough to be out alone, make sure they tell you who they're going out with, where they're going, and when they'll be back.

7. In busy public places, arrange somewhere safe to meet in case you get separated. Make sure that children know what to do if they get lost and who is safest to ask for help - a police officer, a shop assistant or someone with a young child.

8. Help to build your child's self-esteem with lots of love, praise and attention. Bullies and dangerous adults may tend to pick out less confident children or those who are neglected and often left alone.

9. Let children know they never have to do anything they don't like with an adult or older child - even if it's someone they know. Practise this at home by never making them kiss or hug an adult if they don't want to.

10. Listen to your children, especially when they are trying to tell you about things that worry them. Is there a bully at school or a babysitter they don't like? Let children know that you will always take them seriously and do whatever you can to keep them safe.