No Fear: Growing up in a risk averse society
Published in 2007 by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. Reprinted twice - in print as of Jan 2010.
Portuguese translation published in June 2010 - contact Tim for more details.
Published in 2007 by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. Reprinted twice - in print as of Jan 2010.
Portuguese translation published in June 2010 - contact Tim for more details.
No Fear argues that childhood is being undermined by the growth of risk aversion. This restricts children's play, limits their freedom of movement, corrodes their relationships with adults and constrains their exploration of physical, social and virtual worlds.
Focusing on the crucial years of childhood between the ages of 5 and 11, No Fear examines some of the key issues with regard to children's safety: playground design and legislation, antisocial behaviour, bullying, child protection, the fear of strangers and online risks. It offers insights into the roles of parents, teachers, carers, the media, safety agencies and the Government and shows how risk averse behaviour ironically can damage and endanger children's lives. In conclusion, No Fear advocates a philosophy of resilience that strikes a better balance between protecting children from genuine threats and giving them rich, challenging opportunities through which to learn and grow.
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Publisher's web page for information, book ordering, downloads (the full publication is available to download as a pdf) and selected media coverage.
Reviews
"An excellent resource for advocates of better outdoor experiences... a book to share with the as-yet unconvinced."
Dr Mary Rivkin, University of Maryland, in the American Journal of Play (Summer 09).
"Compelling. I read it in one sitting and continue to reflect on and share its contents."
Martha Driessnack, in Children, Youth & Environments (Apr 08).
"A very welcome antidote to all the wild scaremongering about children's lives."
Helene Guldberg, in Spiked online (14 Nov 07).
"A welcome blast of fresh air on a topic that is burdened by adult anxiety and confusion."
Jennie Lindon, in Nursery World (27 Nov 07).
"Tim's timely book is a must for anyone lobbying for a more child-friendly public realm."
Alan Sutton, in Play Today (Nov 07) (pdf link)
"A MUST READ for anyone working with or caring for children! Tim Gill's controversial book provides a thought provoking and challenging read examining the impact of children's lifestyles today on their futures."
Network of Community Activities, NSW, Australia (buy No Fear for AUD 35).