Five Benefits of Children Playing Outdoors

Playing outdoors

Outdoor Play

Technical developments and amazing things have pushed a great deal of children indoors. They are unable to drag their most favorite gaming console, computer or big-screen tv set outside, so that they wind up playing inside more often than not. Too much exposure to unnatural lights and technologically-controlled inside air flow are usually not healthy and balanced for children, however. There are far more ways in which spending extended periods inside can harm your little one’s development too. Remember how important it’s to get young kids outside regularly, have a look at these 5 benefits associated with outdoor play for youngsters.

1 – Vision Is Enhanced

Even in the largest home, vision is stymied by distance. Your child doesn’t need to process visual information for very long distances. Outdoors, the human eye takes in everything within its range of vision.

Proof of the benefit of enhanced vision for children playing outdoors was reported by Optometry and Vision Science. They have released a study which shows that children who spend more time outside have better distance vision than those who play indoors most of the time.

2 – Mental Health Skyrockets

There is plenty of recent research which shows the importance of interaction with nature for mental health and well-being. Just 10 to 15 minutes in an environment with natural green colors like plants, grass and trees has been linked to improved memory and concentration. Playing outdoors in a natural, green colored environment also reduces the development and symptoms of neurological disorders.

3 – Attention Span Increases

Scientific research once again shows the importance of getting your kids to play outside. Time spent in outdoor settings in some magical way increases the attention span of children, and adults as well. The correlation has been proven, if not the reason behind this wonderful benefit.

4 – Contributes to Healthy Levels of Vitamin D

Unfortunately, the food our children eat is largely processed and unhealthy. This leads to a rash of vitamin deficiencies. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that more and more children these days are displaying a vitamin D deficiency.

This can lead to bone problems, heart disease, diabetes and other significant health disorders. Just 10 to 20 minutes of exposure to sun on your skin creates the manufacture of vitamin D in the human body. That is enough time to manufacture your child’s daily requirement of vitamin D.

5 – Social Skills Are Approved

Strong social skills lead to success in so many ways. Your child can develop personal relationships, professional relationships and learn to communicate effectively. Multiple studies show that when you are able to communicate and socialize, you make more money in your lifetime than someone who possesses poor social skills. When your children play outside they often play with others, which gives their social skills a boost.