Modern children spend far too little time playing outside, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has concluded. In this electronic age, children seek entertainment from computers, television and video games rather than the great outdoors. Consequently, they live increasingly sedentary lives, and they miss out on the joys and beauties of nature. Government branches and private organizations are addressing this problem by encouraging children to spend more time playing outside, for physical, mental and moral benefits.
Health Benefits
In general, when children play outside, they are more physically active, according to Health and Human Services. As a result, children who habitually play outside tend to have better health. When you encourage your child to play outside, the increased activity strengthens his muscles, bones and hearts. In addition, it helps prevent or minimize obesity, diabetes and hypertension. Playing actively outside can also improve your child’s vision, notes the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, and even increase his lifespan.
Academic, Mental, Emotional and Ethical Benefits
Outdoor activity improves academic skills such as memory and concentration, HHS concludes. New Jersey's Environmental Protection adds that playing outside increases a child’s cognitive development and problem-solving skills. Even simply looking at nature reduces stress. Further, the Department explains, spending time outside teaches kids to appreciate nature, which enhances their environmental consciousness. Children who avoid the outdoors might struggle to understand why conserving the environment matters, but children who love nature want to protect it.
Time
A child should be physically active for one hour each day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Based on that recommendation, the National Wildlife Federation advises giving your child a “green hour” every day--a time for your child to enjoy and explore nature while also getting his daily exercise in an enjoyable way.
Types
Children should experience both structured and unstructured forms of outdoor play, explains HHS. Structured playtime can take the form of academic lessons about nature, guided hikes or walks, gardening, biking trips, local outdoor programs or volunteer nature clean-up days. To foster unstructured outdoor play, simply provide or find a safe place to play--the National Wildlife Federation suggests your backyard, a garden or a public park--and let your children wander freely.
Warnings
Talk to your kids about outdoor safety. To minimize the risk of sunburn and skin cancer, remind them to wear sunscreen any time they go outside. If they ride bikes, make sure they know how to use and ride them properly.
Teach your children not to eat or touch poisonous plants. Make sure children wear insect repellent to avoid ticks and other dangerous bugs, and wash their clothes after playing outside.
Perhaps most importantly, educate your children about dealing with strangers wisely.
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