How Nature Makes Kids Calmer , Healthier and Smarter
Development
In the midst of families ’ busy schedules , often filled with sports and other activities , it is sometimes hard to fit in time to just play outside or visit a park .
Did you grow up , freely playing outdoors and climbing trees ? If you did , you ’ ll likely agree that you want your child to enjoy those experiences as well .
Today , however , many children do not have a backyard or anyone to play with . And then , as a parent , you worry that you have to stay outside to keep them safe - but what about dinner or those emails that you wanted to answer ?
So many children spend much of their time indoors . As a result , by the time a child is in elementary school , given a choice , they actually prefer to stay inside .
Our grandmothers were right : Kids need fresh air and exercise . We all do . Research shows that children ( and adults !) who spend time outside in nature are :
Calmer - Fresh air soothes the senses . This is particularly important for children who are more sensitive to stimulation .
Happier - Studies show sunshine , fresh air , and physical activity encourage good moods and reduce tendencies toward depression .
Healthier - Children who don ’ t get enough time outdoors can be vitamin D deficient , which affects healthy eye function .
Better students - They have longer attention spans , less frustration , and do better in school . It ’ s all that oxygen to the brain .
More creative - Outdoor play is often less structured , so kids exercise their imaginations as well as their bodies .
So what ’ s the answer to our nature-deprived lives ? Getting outdoors ! We know that usually kids won ’ t be able to be outdoors without parents , so parents need to get outside , too .
Anoka-Hennepin Schools ECFE teacher at Sorteberg Early Childhood Center , Jessica Fabb , says , “ For a young child , everything is new — even the tiniest things are interesting and exciting .” Fabb teaches classes in the outdoor classroom at Sorteberg , which is full of natural possibilities for adults and children to explore together .
Here are two quick ideas for outdoor play from Fabb :
• Set up an outdoor space that is inviting , and spend time there with your child . A sandbox , wading pool , swing , climbing structure or garden will keep your child entertained for hours . If permanent structures aren ’ t possible , think temporary : A tablecloth tent or a bucket of water with funnels and cups , or a shovel to dig a hole you can later refill .
• Spend time as a family in nature -- hiking , playing tag , biking , or simply walking together to a local park or just around the block . It allows your family to regroup and get back in sync . It makes wonderful memories .
Lastly , “ Don ’ t forget to ask open-ended questions when you are outdoors with your child ,” says Fabb . “ You may just be surprised with the enjoyment you both have while being in nature together .”
If you ’ re stuck for ideas , check out the additional suggestions that Fabb shares for family outdoor fun on our resources page .
ahschools . us / ECFEtips
* Anoka-Hennepin Schools Early Childhood Family Education ( ECFE ) is fortunate to have two outdoor spaces for classes and Playtimes - Riverview Early Childhood Center and Sorteberg Early Childhood Center .
www . ahschools . us / ecfe 11