How does being outside affect kids?

More outdoor time is linked with improved motor development and lower obesity rates and myopia (nearsightedness) risk. Safely getting some sun also helps us make vitamin D that our bodies need to stay healthy and strong. More engaged in learning. Playing outside promotes curiosity, creativity and critical thinking.

How does outdoor play affect a child's development?

Improvements to sleep, mood and social skills

“Outdoor play helps children grow socially, helping them to develop healthy ways of forming friendships, responding to physical interaction, and using their imaginations to entertain each other,” says Dr. Lockwood.

Should kids be outside all day?

Pediatric occupational therapist Angela Hanscom calls active free play outdoors, “the most beneficial gift we as parents…can bestow on our children.” Hanscom says ideally kids should be playing outside 3 hours each day, and that doesn't include organized sports.

How long should kids stay outside?

Angela Hanscom, a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of the therapeutic outdoor program Timbernook, prescribes three hours per day for children—a figure that is consistent with recommendations from other child development specialists.

Does being outside make kids tired?

Physical exertion, like playing outside and exercising, not only makes your child more tired but also helps to establish healthy circadian rhythms. Time spent out in the sun keeps the brain on track for a regular sleep-wake cycle.

Mental Health Benefits of Getting Outside

What happens to kids who don't play outside?

Children spending less time outdoors has been linked to decreased appreciation of our environment, health problems including childhood obesity and vitamin D deficiency, diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and higher rates of emotional illnesses like anxiety and depression.

Does going outside make kids happier?

Spending time outdoors isn't just enjoyable — it's also necessary. Many researchers agree that kids who play outside are happier, better at paying attention and less anxious than kids who spend more time indoors. Spending time in nature can build their confidence.

Why do kids need fresh air?

Studies show that kids who get outside more are less likely to develop heart disease, high blood pressure, type two diabetes or high cholesterol as adults. Kids who get lots of fresh air are also more likely to have healthier hearts, more flexible joints and stronger lungs than kids who spend more time indoors.

What are the benefits of children being outdoors?

Playing outdoors allows children to develop self-confidence, independence and self-esteem. They also become aware of limits, boundaries and challenge in their play. When children are used to playing outdoors, they are more likely to: try new activities.

How does nature affect child development?

Nature provides countless opportunities for discovery, creativity, problem-solving, and STEM education. Interacting with natural environments allows children to learn by doing and experiment with ideas. In nature, children think, question, and make hypotheses — thereby developing inquisitive minds.

How often should I take my child outside?

Bottom line: 30 to 60 minutes of outdoor play time per day but even 10 minute “chunks” are a good idea. Vist NWF's Be Out There – Green Hour Activities Page for terrific outdoor time ideas for kids and families!

What are 4 types of child personalities?

Is it OK not to go outside everyday?

You know that spending time outdoors is good for your physical and mental health—but, as it turns out, not getting enough time in the fresh air can negatively impact your wellbeing. Getting outside is critical to your mental and physical wellbeing, says Dr.

What are the disadvantages of outdoor play?

Why is indoor play important?

Research shows one of the benefits of indoor play is that it encourages creativity and critical thinking. As you can imagine, crafts and story time ask children to be inventive, board games encourage problem-solving, and games such as Wii Fit and Just Dance promote physical activity.

How can lack of play affect a child's development?

It can inhibit social and emotional learning, and damage early child development. A play-deprived child may find it harder to interact with others throughout their lifetime, leading to poor resilience in certain situations, and reduced self-control.

What are 3 benefits to being outdoors?

Studies also show that being outside in nature is relaxing, reducing our stress, cortisol levels, muscle tension and heart rates – all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

What are the 5 benefits of outdoor activities?

What are 5 benefits to outdoor education?

Why is playing outside important?

More outdoor time is linked with improved motor development and lower obesity rates and myopia (nearsightedness) risk. Safely getting some sun also helps us make vitamin D that our bodies need to stay healthy and strong. More engaged in learning. Playing outside promotes curiosity, creativity and critical thinking.

What is the importance of sunshine for kids?

The vitamin D your body produces when absorbing ultraviolet light from the sun can help with bone development, disease prevention, and a healthy nervous system. The same process also produces serotonin, a chemical that aids brain function and improves mood and happiness.

What are the benefits of sunshine for children?

Where do kids grow up happiest?

It's not a fantasy—it's the Netherlands! Rina Mae Acosta and Michele Hutchison—an American and a Brit, both married to Dutchmen and raising their kids in the Netherlands—report back on what makes Dutch kids so happy and well adjusted.

Why do kids like it outside so much?

Outside, kids are inspired and empowered to be themselves or whatever their imaginations conjure — all through the power of play. Outside, “inside voices” are irrelevant. Kids can be loud and move wildly.

Why is outside better than inside?

When we are outside our body slows down, helping us feel peaceful and calm. Our minds work in a similar way. Spending time outside improves mood and reduces feelings of anxiety. We can focus better in nature, and our improved concentration can help us address feelings of stress and anxiety.