All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. It’s an old proverb, yet how easily establishes the importance of play in the development of children.
Play is essential for growth because it contributes to their cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being. Play is more than just fun and activities. It’s how children learn and develop. It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact to the world around them. It also helps them engage with other children. Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. While playing is important, it is also important for children to play outside.
When parents and teachers reflect back to their own childhood days, chances are some of their fondest memories are of outdoor places and activities. Such memories might include a favorite climbing tree or a secret hiding place, learning to pull cartwheels with a friend, or making paper boats and playing in the rain.
We all know that during the age of 1 to 3, most development takes place. Imagine if your child is spending this time on television, computer or a smartphone and that too indoors. Children who spend a lot of time acquiring their learning through television and computers are using only two senses – hearing and sight, which can seriously affect their perceptual abilities.
Children learn much through their senses. There are different and wonderful things for them to see and explore outside – the sound of the wind, birds chirping, the smell of the flowers and rain-soaked ground, the touch of a fuzzy caterpillar or the bark of a tree, and the taste (of a newly fallen snow or a raindrop on the tongue).
Outdoor play builds up their immunity system and exposure in sun provides Vitamin D. Just 10-15 minutes out in the sun will give children their daily dose of Vitamin D which helps promote better moods, energy levels, memory and overall health.
Outdoors have something more to offer than just physical benefits. Children are more likely to invent games outside. They are able to express themselves and learn about the world in their own way. A walk in the neighbourhood or some fun activities at the courtyard serves the purpose of outdoor activity. Running, walking, using the swings will help kids to adjust with the movements and body balancing. Children can run, jump, yell and expend some of the energy, which will result in a good appetite.
Here are some activities for the outdoors –
- A nature walk is a great way to enhance children’s appreciation of the natural environment. Encourage them to touch – to discover the smoothness of a rock, the roughness of bark, and the fragility of a dried leaf. Ask them to tell you what they’re seeing, hearing, and smelling.
- Set up an obstacle course placing some objects. Moving through them will teach important concepts like over, under, through, and around.
- Take them to a zoo, beach or garden and let them see and understand the different faces of the nature.
Playing outside presents a lot of benefits and provides parents with the opportunity to engage with their children. Get out there with the kids and let the laughter and memories begin !