IRRESPECTIVE of party politics, David Cameron made a good point last week about children and technology.

He said that he bans his children – Nancy, 12, 10 year-old Elwen and Florence, five - from playing on their electronic devices on Saturday mornings. He apparently gets upset if he catches them breaking this rule. That sounds like sensible parenting today, although I think he could go a little further with the technology rationing.

As many parents and grandparents know these days, children and their iPads, tablets and mobiles are joined at the hip. Youngsters’ biggest fear when staying somewhere new, according to a recent survey, is that there isn’t Wifi available.

The danger is not only that they become anti-social as a result of this solo habit but also that they shun the outdoors and exercise in favour of the unreality of cyberspace and life spent indoors.

Children can easily enjoy the outdoors generally and sport in particular when parents simply show them the way. This was underlined for me last weekend when the local racquets’ club where I’m a member held an open day.

The weather was particularly kind so mums and dads and their kids were able to enjoy tennis tasters and games outside and then move inside for squash and badminton. There was also a bouncy castle for them to happily burn off what was left of their energy.

It was brilliant to see so many youngsters enjoying the free fun, and great to see so many parents not only encouraging them but leading by example.

It’s never too late, or too early, to enjoy physical activities with large levels of fun whatever your skills, especially initially. We adults often rule out learning a new sport because we’re “too busy” or “too old” yet the truth is that neither should really be influential.

Put aside the health benefits for a minute and just acknowledge the sheer enjoyment available from taking part in games. Whether you’re a competitive person or not, I defy you not to laugh out loud at a session learning tennis, going for a cycle ride with your children or just organising an inclusive game of rounders.

Activities don’t need to cost a fortune or rule out families on any specific basis. Now, we’re being told that we’re in for bumper Summer weather this year so the outdoors is happily opened up to all. Just enjoy it!