Most of us adults have experienced some form of release or joy when spending time outdoors, whether it was on a hike, relaxing on the beach, or having a picnic in the park. But what about the benefits for children? Well, from increased confidence to a stronger immune system, once you read about the many benefits of digging in the dirt and being outside, I know you’ll want to head to the nearest park with your little one(s)!
5 Benefits of Outdoor Play for Kids
Evidence showing a multitude of benefits of outdoor play is growing so much so that pediatricians are beginning to recommend contact with nature to boost children’s health! So what are some of these benefits?
Improved Mood
From decreased stress levels, to increased happiness, nature helps children to better regulate their emotions. Play in particular, as opposed to a rushed lifestyle, protects children’s emotional development.
Stronger Immune System
Digging in the dirt can make your child’s immune system stronger! That dirt under their fingernails? It’s full of healthy bacteria, parasites, and viruses that strengthen their immune system. Mud pie, anyone?
Improved Sleep
With outdoor time built into a child’s schedule, they are able to get better sleep at night. Bright daylight helps children say alert and energized during the day, elevate their moods, and make it easier to sleep at night. Morning light in particular helps prepare their bodies for a better and earlier night’s sleep.
Different Stimulation
It may seem like what children watch on screens is more “stimulating”, but in reality nature is. When you are outside all of your senses are engaged – you can touch, smell, hear, see, (and sometimes even taste!) different things when outside.
Thinking and Soft Fascination
Nature prompts a child’s natural curiosity and sense of wonder. They begin to ask questions about earth and the life that supports it. Studies have shown that time outdoors also increases critical thinking skills.
So, are you ready to get outside with your kids to experience all of these benefits directly? Head over to our Activities and Workshops page to join us for our next outdoor adventure in Madrid!
Resources
Arola, T., Aulake, M., Ott, A., Lindholm, M., Kouvonen, P., Virtanen, P., Paloniemi, R. (2023). The impacts of nature connectedness on children’s well-being: Systematic literature review. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 85(101913), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvp.2022.101913
Cohen, D. Why kids need to spend time in nature. Child Mind. https://childmind.org/article/why-kids-need-to-spend-time-in-nature/
Nature Wildlife Federation. Health benefits and tips. https://www.nwf.org/en/Kids-and-Family/Connecting-Kids-and-Nature/Health-Benefits-and-Tips#:~:text=1%20Children%E2%80%99s%20stress%20levels%20fall%20within%20minutes%20of,social%20interactions%2C%20value%20for%20community%2C%20and%20close%20relationships.