As a parent, you want what is best for your children. You want them to be happy, healthy, and safe. Letting them enjoy the great outdoors is a great way to achieve all those things. Here are some benefits of allowing your children to spend time outside.
Exercise
One of the most significant benefits of letting your children play outside is that they’ll get some exercise. According to the CDC, childhood obesity has more than tripled in the last 40 years . Getting your children up and moving is a great way to help combat this problem. In addition, letting them run outside is a great way to get their heart rates up and burn some energy.
Creativity
Another benefit of outdoor play is that it can help increase your child’s creativity. When children are cooped up inside, they often turn to screens for entertainment. While there is nothing wrong with screen time in moderation, too much of it can stifle a child’s imagination. Being outside and interacting with the world around them will help them be more creative. In addition, they’ll be able to use their imaginations more freely when they’re not staring at a screen all day.
Unplugged from Technology
In today’s digital age, it is easy for children to become glued to their screens. According to Common Sense Media, American children spend an average of seven hours a day staring at screens. This includes televisions, computers, tablets, and smartphones. Too much screen time can lead to behavioral problems, sleep issues, and difficulty focusing. Letting your children play outside is a great way to unplug technology and explore the world around them.
Mental Health
There is also a strong correlation between time spent outdoors and mental health. According to a study by the University of Essex, time spent in green spaces is associated with decreased anxiety, depression, and stress. The study also found that time spent outdoors can increase self-esteem and self-worth. As a parent, it is essential to encourage activities that promote mental well-being. What better way to do that than letting your children enjoy the great outdoors?
Make Friends
Finally, another great benefit of outdoor play is that it can help your child make some friends. If you have a shy child, letting them play outside with other kids can help them escape their shell. They’ll be more likely to interact with other kids and make friends if they play together in person rather than online. Outdoor play can also help build social skills that will benefit your child later in life.
As a parent, you want what is best for your children. You want them to be happy, healthy, and safe—and one great way to achieve that is by letting them enjoy the great outdoors. Outdoor play provides many benefits for children. If you don’t know how to get your kids going, consider these two options:
Renovate Your Backyard
Consider renovating your backyard if you want your children to be safe while enjoying the great outdoors. Here are three renovations your children are sure to enjoy.
Patio
Consider building a patio if you want more space for your home. This home extension can double as a play area for your children. So not only will they be able to enjoy the outdoors safely, but they’ll also have a great space to hang out with friends or family.
Treehouse
Another great option is to build a treehouse in your backyard. Treehouses are fun for kids and adults alike and provide hours of entertainment. They’re also great places for children to escape from screens and enjoy some unplugged time outdoors with their friends.
Playground Equipment
Another great option is to install some playground equipment in your backyard. Whether it’s a jungle gym, swing set, or slide, this equipment can help promote healthy outdoor play. In addition, it will give your children plenty of ways to burn off energy and get their hearts pumping.
Your backyard is one of the best places to introduce the great outdoors to your children. Just don’t let your child spend too much time in the sun. If you want them to stay protected from the sun, consider installing polycarbonate roofing systems in your home. It can help block the sun’s harmful UV rays and protect your children. This can ensure that your children can enjoy your backyard without worrying too much about sunburn.
Camping
If you want to give your children an even more immersive experience of the great outdoors, consider taking them camping. Camping is a beautiful way to escape screens and technology and enjoy quality time with your kids. It also provides plenty of opportunities for physical activity, exploration, and socializing with other kids. To ensure your children are safe on your camping trip, consider packing safety essentials like first aid kits, bug spray, and sunscreen.
There you have it – two great ways to encourage outdoor play for your kids. Whether you’re looking for a more immersive experience or want to give them some unplugged time in the backyard, these ideas can help. So take the first step and start enjoying the great outdoors with your children today!
