Like many people, you undoubtedly have fondest childhood memories of constructing forts in your backyard and swimming in lakes. That is less true for kids nowadays.
According to the Nature Conservancy, only 6% of children aged 9 to 13 spend an average week playing outside by themselves. Nearly half of preschoolers don't have their parents take them outside for daily playtime or walks, according to a study that was published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine journal.
The factors influencing outdoor play are likely not what you may think, according to the same study. TV viewing hours, family income, and neighborhood safety had no impact. The important things were having lots of playmates and parents who worked out regularly.
How can you encourage your children to spend more time outside? Check out these suggestions for getting your kids outside.
Benefits of Playing Outside:
1. Develop healthy bodies. Vitamin D from sun exposure helps to strengthen bones. Additionally, physical activity enhances agility and motor skills.
2. Grow intelligent. It has been discovered that spending time outside improves IQ scores and fosters creative thinking and problem-solving skills. At any age, it is beneficial to mental wellness.
3. Establish a connection with nature. Children can learn to appreciate and comprehend the environment via direct interaction with plants and animals. As they get older, they'll be more inclined to make appropriate decisions.
Outdoor activities:
1. Add some water. Children enjoy getting wet. You can use a hose to spray water for your children to run in even if you are unable to construct an inground pool.
2. Make messy crafts. Your living room furniture may sustain damage from paints and markers, but practically anything can be used outside. On your driveway, draw game boards made of chalk. Make paper mache animals or clay vases. Try your hand at tie-dying or face painting.
3. Dine outside. You have at least three chances each day to pull up a chair outside during meals. Have a picnic on the grass for lunch and serve breakfast on your terrace.
4. Talk with your school. Recess time has been reduced in schools. Promote outdoor activities, recess, and other initiatives that encourage students to spend time outside.
5. Set internet time limits. Although watching TV in moderation is generally acceptable, set sensible limits. Limit internet use outside of schooling and establish a curfew for any screen time before bed.
6. Make time for relaxation. How many extracurriculars do your children take part in? Schedule unstructured playtime in between language classes, dance classes, and science laboratories.
7. Go hiking. Hiking and walking are cheap and excellent forms of exercise. In order to explore when you see something intriguing, keep comfy shoes in your car.
Encourage your kids to spend more time outside playing freely and taking in the fresh air. They will probably achieve more and grow up with greater health and happiness.