Benefits of Nature Play
A growing body of research is proving what those of us who grew up playing in the woods intuitively know - nature is good for us.
• School achievement is enhanced when curricula is environment based
• Outdoor experiences for teens has self reported life changing results
• Nearby nature reduces stress in children and adults
• Access to nature nurtures self discipline
• Nearby nature boosts cognitive functioning
• And of course exercise is good for us
Contrast this with the fact adult obesity increased 60% between 1991 and 2000 and 1 out of 3 kids are overweight. 2.7 million children in the United States are severely obese. Not surprisingly, an indoor sedentary childhood is also linked to mental health problems.
Parents want the best for their children and are trying to combat the problems by enrolling their children in structured physical activities like sports, but ironically the greatest increase in organized children’s sports coincides with the obesity epidemic.
Playtime - especially unstructured, imaginative, and exploratory play - is increasingly recognized as an essential component of wholesome child development. The physical exercise and emotional stretching that children enjoy in unorganized play is more varied and less time-bound. Different types of activities are mingled like bike riding, running and walking and because terrain is varied in nature motor fitness improves, especially balance and agility.
Adults who exercise in nature vs a gym report feeling restored, less anxious, angry, and depressed. It is easy to believe children feel the same way.
Nature is often overlooked as a healing balm for emotional hardships in a child’s (and adult) life. A 2003 survey reported the rate at which American children are prescribed antidepressants almost doubled in five years; the steepest increase - almost 66% was in preschoolers. Of course numerous children benefit from the use of these drugs, but the benefit nature provides is often overlooked. In fact, new research is indicating the need for such medications is intensified by children’s disconnection with nature. (Richard Louv)
So get outside! Check out our ideas for adult kid activities, young kid activities, educator kid activities, and find a place to play!
