How Does Outdoor Play Benefit Your Kids?
The CDC indicated that kids aged 8-10 spend six hours on average in front of a screen while those aged 11-14 spend an average of 9 hours. Indeed, excess screen time can affect your kids negatively. For starters, it messes with your kids' sleep patterns while increasing their obesity risks. Moreover, it increases their risks of developing anxiety, depression, and attention problems. On the other hand, outdoor play offers immense benefits for your kids, including the following.
1. It is a good form of exercise
If you’re looking to get your kids to exercise more, then you’d want to encourage them to play outside. While an adult may perceive exercise as yoga, treadmill runs, jogging, etc., children benefit more from active play. According to the NRC, playing outside allows children to dance, run, jump, climb, etc. This, in turn, builds their bones, muscles, and joints while developing their motor skills. Likewise, it enhances their coordination, strength, and stamina while reducing their risks of developing chronic diseases later in life. The NRC recommends 60 to 90 minutes of outdoor play every eight hours for toddlers, while preschoolers can play for 90 to 120 minutes. Expert advice that you match your kids’ outdoor time with their screen time for the best results.
2. It improves peer relationships
Outdoor play goes a long way in improving your kids’ peer relationships. Research stated that children who play outdoors are often more aware of themselves and others, leading to increased empathy. Moreover, they are less likely to bully other kids, leading to sustained friendships. Outdoor play usually involves teamwork and imagination, and these help children have positive interactions with each other. Indeed, arguments can't be erased, especially with taking turns with various play equipment. However, these experiences will teach them to handle disagreements without ruining relationships.
3. It enhances cognitive development
While playing outdoors is fun and good for physical health, it’s not limited to that. Outdoor play is also beneficial for your kids' cognitive development. When children play outside, they are exposed to nature sounds, the smell of fresh flowers, the sight of the sun or animals, etc. This stimulates, engages, and sharpens their multiple senses. Likewise, children get the chance to create engaging activities while learning how to plan, multitask, negotiate, troubleshoot and prioritize. Additionally, outdoor time helps decrease stress and promotes the healthy functioning of your kids' bodies.
4. It promotes independence
Independence is a trait with many benefits for your kids. For starters, it helps them be assets to other people while preventing them from becoming a burden. It also builds their confidence and self-esteem, establishes their financial freedom, and builds their reputation among friends. A practical way for your kids to learn independence is to play outdoors regularly. Several studies indicate that children who explore outdoor surroundings are more likely to develop independence early. Besides, they get the freedom to take risks and test their boundaries without feeling limited. Although they might make mistakes, they can gain confidence knowing that they have tried something new.
Indeed, outdoor play benefits your children immensely, making it important to include it in their schedules. However, you also want to ensure that their health isn't compromised. That said, you can come along with a hand sanitiser spray and other essential first-aid items in case of an emergency.