As we start to slowly head to cooler days around here it’s natural for us to start heading outside more often. But no matter the weather, it’s important to give children time outside.
Science continues to show the benefits of outdoor play for even the youngest children. Whether it’s physical, emotional or cognitive, the results are clear. Outdoor play is an essential cornerstone for development.
Whether you are in your own backyard or at one of the many great parks and playgrounds in our area, outside play helps build gross motor skills of all kinds. Running, jumping, climbing, throwing, catching, skipping – all of it improves naturally with unstructured outdoor play. And all of those gross motor (think big muscles and big movements) skills are a critical precursor to developing fine motor skills (think small muscles for things like holding a pencil or scissors).
Balance also improves with outdoor play. A skill that is essential for holding little bodies in chairs at school or in spots on the carpet at story time. Plus the exposure to sunshine and vitamin D is important for healthy bone growth. And active play helps fight obesity.
Let’s not overlook all of the emotional and cognitive benefits that may be less obvious. Science shows that outdoor play reduces stress and anxiety and leads to better sleep. And better sleep is better for everyone!
One of my favorite things to witness during outdoor play is the way it encourages the imaginations of children. They can be dragons, sharks, mermaids, unicorn ponies or anything else they can conjure in their little minds. And if other friends are around, those imaginative roles naturally lead to cooperation and team work.
Problem solving is another natural outcome of outdoor play. As is increased understanding of cause and effect.
You don’t need to invent complex obstacle courses or seek out the biggest, best playgrounds to reap the benefits, although we have plenty of options for great playgrounds nearby.
For babies, consider tummy time on a mat in the backyard so your little one can see, hear, smell, and grab new things! Stories outside are another great option.
Older children can enjoy scavenger hunts (find something yellow, find a stick shaped like a letter, find something shaped like a triangle) and nature walks.
Planting a simple vegetable or flower and checking on it regularly is another fun option that facilitates learning. This lends itself to learning about plant life cycles, as well as the importance of taking care of something.
And let’s keep in mind that as we spend more time outside with children they grow into adults with a better understanding and appreciation of the outdoors. Leading them to become better stewards of our outdoor world.
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