I’m not sure how it is where you live but in my area in California, many families keep themselves and their kids highly structured to keep up with the fast pace and high cost of living. It seems that we always have something planned or another event scheduled and many have forgotten about the simple and essential basics of play and nature itself.
No matter the time of year there are tons of fun and inexpensive ways to get outside and play. Whether your kids like to go out and collect leaves for leaf collage art, splash in the puddles, use cardboard to slide down hills, spend time on the playground, make snow angels, play in the sprinklers, toss a football, or ride a bike, the great outdoors is calling us.
Spending time outdoors isn’t just enjoyable — we need it! Many researchers agree that playing outside can actually lower stress, increase natural energy, reduce the risk of mental illness and increase happiness.
Spending time in nature can build a child’s confidence and increase their resilience. There’s a lot less structure outdoors than there is for most types of indoor play and they can choose how they interact with the nature around them by choosing their own adventure. This gives them practice in managing their own actions and encourages creativity, imagination, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
Being outside gets kids moving. Not only is exercise good for kids’ bodies, but it seems to make them more focused. This is especially helpful for kids with ADHD. Outside can also strengthen the immune system and improve overall physical and emotional health. Sunlight itself is essential for human health and well-being in adults and children.
The health benefits of sunlight include generating the production of vitamin D, supporting bone health, lowering blood pressure, preventing disease, promoting good mental and emotional health, and can actually decrease the risk of anxiety and depression.
Maybe you remember this one. God made dirt, dirt don’t hurt. Grab your best armigo and let’s get out and have some fun in it!
