We want what is best for our children, for them to be happy, healthy, and have a bright future. One of the most important gifts we can give them early in their development is a love of nature. Nature play is often neglected in today’s modern world, but it produces many physical, social, and intellectual benefits that will stay with a child for the rest of their life.
Physical Development and Health
The physical benefits for children from playing outdoors are probably the most obvious. Outside, children are able to explore and use their whole body to climb, jump, run, and crawl. This develops gross motor skills and increases muscle strength, coordination, and flexibility. A child learns what they are good at and how to improve at what they aren’t, creating physical confidence. Spending more time outside is at the top of any doctor’s list of recommendations for a healthier lifestyle, and this is especially true for children. They are able to get fresh air and sunshine, both of which are essential for good health. Sunshine helps the body produce vitamin D, which is necessary for strong bones and a healthy immune system. Fresh air helps improve lung function and reduces stress levels. Being active outdoors produces higher levels of serotonin (a feel-good hormone). Also, it helps reduce obesity and the risk of developing chronic health conditions such as type II diabetes or high blood pressure. The habits a child gains from consistent outdoor activity will likely continue into adulthood, setting them up for a lifetime of good physical health and well-being.
Social and Emotional Maturation
It is fun for kids to play with each other outdoors and teaches them valuable social skills. Children who play in nature have to communicate and cooperate with each other. They learn how to share, take turns, resolve conflicts and exhibit more empathy for others. This often leads to better self-awareness and relationships with peers and elders. Outdoors, away from the constant stimulation of the modern world, children have more time to reflect on their own thoughts and feelings. The emotional benefits of nature play include a better sense of independence and reduced anxiety. This sense of freedom, taking minor risks away from the supervision of adults, nurtures self-reliance. With the advent of the smartphone and the increasing prevalence of screens, ADHD and anxiety have become epidemic in children. Studies have shown that being in nature can help to lower cortisol (a stress hormone) levels in the body and that looking at nature scenes can reduce anxiety and negative thoughts.
Intellectual Curiosity
Children who spend time in nature have better attention spans, creative imagination, and problem-solving skills. With increased screen time and video games, it is more important than ever for children to have opportunities to use their minds and explore their surroundings. Some of the best opportunities for intellectual development come from unstructured play where children have to find their own way and figure things out for themselves. When left to explore on their own, children are more likely to take risks, experiment, and persevere in the face of challenges. Coming across and navigating unique situations builds a part of a child’s brain that is important and can otherwise be neglected.
Push Your Child Outdoors!
The next time your child is bored or restless, instead of plopping them in front of a screen, take them outside and watch their imaginations run wild. Not only will they get lots of exercise from climbing and running, but they will improve their social skills by interacting with other children, and their cognitive abilities by exploring and testing their surroundings. Get your kids outside to play today! They’ll be thanking you for it later!
Find out more about our nature play range.
