Benefits of Outdoor Play for Kids
More than half of children in developed nations do not get enough exercise. Playing outside may help your kids feel better, concentrate better, and have more energy throughout the day by providing fresh air and sunshine. Outdoor play also allows children to build stronger bones while boosting their self-esteem and sense of achievement.
Learning about nature exposes children to a variety of different plants and animals. It allows them to stretch their imaginations and creativity, and understand the world around them better. By letting your child play outdoors you can teach them to appreciate and enjoy what this planet has to offer.
Why Play Outside?
- Physical Development Benefits of Outdoor Play
Children who have more time to spend outside are healthier and happier than those who spend most of their time inside. The great outdoors is an excellent setting for children to take part in natural activities, such as running around, climbing trees, playing tag, or simply sitting under a tree reading a book.
- Social Development Benefits
Children are learning social skills at a much younger age than ever before. From playing with friends to interacting with adults, children’s development is changing rapidly. Children need to develop their social skills to be successful in life and here are some of the ways they do so.
- Intellectual Development Benefits
Children are sponges for knowledge, soaking up information from the world around them. This is a wonderful way to help children grow and develop intellectually. Parents should be aware of how they can promote intellectual development in their children by providing a stimulating environment that promotes creativity and curiosity.
- Emotional Development Benefits
A healthy emotional development from a young age is essential for adults. There are various benefits of developing these skills at a young age, such as better socialization, increased self-confidence, and more. These skills can be developed by practicing empathy, being open to new things, and taking responsibility.
Image Courtesy of Jeffreymendel Jeffrey Nash
Fun games to play outdoors:
- Parachute
- Simon Says
- Marbles
- Capture the Flag
- Hide and Seek
- Lawn Twister. ..
- Outdoor obstacle course
- Capture the Flag
- Kick the Can
- Backyard Bowling
How Much Time Should Kids Spend Outside?
Experts recommend that children spend at least 60 minutes per day playing outdoors under direct sunlight. This length of time ensures that they receive enough exposure to UV rays-which strengthen bones and help increase vitamin D intake.
Remember that it’s ideal to play outside under direct sunshine to get the most out of your time outside. On those days when there isn’t a lot of sun – or it isn’t shining directly on your location – UV radiation-emitting lamps may be used indoors as an excellent substitute!
Concord, California is home to many of SF East Bay’s most enjoyable and family-friendly parks. Here’s a shortlist of our favorites:
- Newhall Community Park
- Concord Community Park
- Ygnacio Valley Park
- Markham Nature Area
- Len Hester Park
- Meadow Homes Park
- Willow Pass Community Park
- Ellis Lake Park
- Highlands Park
- Dave Brubeck Park
All of these wonderful parks are located just a short distance from our location located at 2890 North Main Street! Stop by for a visit anytime!