Guest post by, Albert Krav
In a culture where computers and television sets are quickly becoming the new babysitters and playgrounds, it’s so important that today’s parents make it a point to encourage outdoor play for their young children. After a long day at work, it can be so easy to just sit the kids in front of a screen so you can get some much-needed relaxation. The problem is that kids really do need to play outside for the sake of their physical and mental development. Here are just a few reasons why outdoor play is a must.
Outdoor Play Promotes Physical Health
Children need physical activity. Studies have shown that approximately half of the children in the U.S. are not getting enough exercise. As you can imagine, a lack of physical activity dramatically reduces the risk of obesity, heart disease, and countless other serious health issues. Kids develop long-term habits at a very young age, so it is important to encourage regular exercise now. A surprising amount of children these days also have vitamin D deficiencies, which can often be easily remedied through regular outdoor play.
Children Need to Explore
There are life lessons that simply can’t be learned indoors. In order to learn about the physical world, kids need to experience it for themselves. Basic knowledge that we take for granted is not automatically instilled in children at birth – they must learn about the world around them first-hand. It’s imperative that children push their mental and physical boundaries so that they can develop in a natural way.
Kids Need to Release Energy
It’s no secret that kids can be a handful at times. If your children are cooped up in front of the TV all day, you can be sure that you’re going to get a taste of their pent up energy at some point. Encouraging your kids to play outside benefits you as well, as you’re much more likely to get a good night’s sleep that night after a big day of outdoor play! Children need to have a positive way to blow off steam, get rid of stress, and just let loose. Unless you prefer for that to happen indoors, it’s a good idea to help your kids to appreciate the great outdoors.
Playing Outside Promotes Social Skills
Outdoor play with other children is so beneficial to social development. For example, every child can’t use the slide at the same time, so they must learn about patience. They must form a line and take turns. These little social cues that we take for granted are not inherent – they are learned. Playing with other children outside is also one of the best ways for new friendships to blossom, which is so important for short and long-term social development.
Improve Your Relationship with Your Children
Let’s not forget the most important person in your child’s life – you! Playing outside with your children is one of the best ways to bond with your kids. If you give your children their own outdoor haven to play on, they are going to adore you for it. For example, the Super Spinner is a very popular and safe outdoor swing that children absolutely go head over heels for. Why not give your kids a gift that encourages outdoor play? After all, the multitude of benefits is undeniable.
