Children should be allowed to play in the dirt because being too clean can impair the skin’s ability to heal itself, new research suggests. Scientists at the University of California at San Diego have discovered that bacteria on the surface of the skin plays an important role in combating inflammation when we get hurt. The bugs dampen down overactive immune responses, which can lead to rashes or cause cuts and bruises to become swollen and painful. The findings support previous research which suggests that exposure to germs during early childhood can prime the immune system to prevent allergies. Parenting groups yesterday welcomed the findings as ‘a vindication of common sense’ and urged parents to allow their children greater freedom to play outdoors. Parents Outloud, the pressure group, said the research provides scientific support for its campaign to prevent children being mollycoddled by health and safety regulations.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/6630394/Children-should-be-allowed-to-play-in-the-dirt-new-research-suggests.html

http://www.nature.com/nm/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nm.2062.html