Get Outside: The Importance of Outside Play

Technology has allowed the world to change at an astounding rate. Our parents’ idea of a fun Saturday afternoon was likely a bike ride around the neighborhood ending in a trip to the local ice cream shop or football in the backyard. Now, many of our kids see indoor play with computers and gaming consoles is the norm, but we know this can have adverse effects on their physical and mental wellbeing. While it may be impossible for you to keep your kids off the screens entirely, instilling a love for outdoor play will help them for healthy habits that will last a lifetime. 

Let’s Get Physical

With each passing year, our world becomes more and more technologically advanced. This advancement comes with a continued need for work behind computers and screens. The reality is that most children will grow up to work behind one of these devices as an adult. Additionally, many of today’s preferred leisure activities are also done inside in a seated position. The need for outdoor activity will help promote a healthy balance. Physical activity for people is at an all time low, so showing your little one from an early age the fun of outdoor play is crucial. The habits they form in their youth will follow them into adulthood, so start them out strong now.

Let The Sun Shine

The sun is the sole reason we are able to live on Earth, yet many people today never bother to see the big beautiful star. Most people are deficient in vitamin D, which is plentiful and abundantly supplied by the sun. Showing your little one that the world outdoors is nothing to fear will keep them sufficiently topped up with all the goods. Low vitamin D can cause a whole host of health problems, one of which is depression. Depression can lead to your child not wanting to get outside and thus it will be a vicious spiral that can be difficult to get out of.

Calm On The Water

Life moves very quickly for us all, blink and you might miss it. With a constant barrage of information from our phones and a medley of distractions vying for our attention, it can be tough to focus. However, the world around us does not move at the same speed we do. The calming flow of a creek, the gentle breeze through an autumn oak, and the kaleidoscopic beauty of an evening sunset remind us to take a step back. Teaching your child to literally stop and smell the roses can help them to remember to do so figuratively. Patience is a virtue that everyone needs a little more of, and the grace of the outdoors can remind us all of that.