BENEFITS OF KIDS GOING OUTSIDE EVERY DAY
1. Supports Physical Health
Outdoor play helps kids build coordination and strength, along with improving their balance and coordination. Kids naturally want to RUN and encouraging that helps them to not only get out their energy, but it also builds strength and lets them exercise without feeling like it’s a chore.
2. Boosts Brain Development
Time outdoors supports:
- Focus and attention
- Problem-solving skills
- Creativity and imagination
Unstructured play is especially powerful for developing brains and bodies. It gives them the opportunity to tap into their own imagination and creativity. It hard to sit back and let them figure things out but it’s crucial for their brain development to problem solve on their own and use their imagination.
3. Improves Mood & Emotional Regulation
Fresh air and movement can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve mood
- Help kids regulate big emotions
Many parents notice fewer meltdowns after outside time; I know that I have. Although most days it’s hard to drag my kids back inside! I do find that they fight less and go right to sleep when it’s time for bed after a long day outside. It tests them mentally and physically, and we’re all happier at the end of the day.
4. Improves Sleep
Speaking of sleep, natural light exposure helps regulate:
- Circadian rhythms
- Sleep quality and bedtime routines
Kids who play outside often fall asleep faster and sleep better in my experience. They’re happier, healthier and more regulated.
5. Encourages Independence & Confidence
Outdoor play allows kids to:
- Take safe risks
- Make decisions
- Build confidence in their abilities
Whenever I sit back and let my kids just make their own decisions, they always come up with something great. Just last month they were playing in a leaf pile and managed to rig up a catapult with a board and some pumpkins. It was awesome to see them using their imagination, along with learning about simple machines on their own!
6. Supports Overall Health
Spending time outside is linked to:
- Stronger immune systems
- Healthy vision development
- Lower stress levels
Even short daily outdoor time adds up. It doesn’t have to be complicated, you don’t have go to any fancy places, just open up the door and get out there! Sit on the porch, go for a walk around the block. Whatever you do, be intentional. Leave the phone in your pocket and spend that quality time with your kids that you will remember forever. 💛