Benefits of outdoor play 'still important in winter'
12/01/2010 Parents should not forget about the benefits of outdoor play activities for children just because the weather is bad.
According to hippymom.com, parents should try to schedule some family exercise time to make sure their children get enough physical activity during the winter months, even if the weather means outdoor play is difficult.
This is particularly relevant for children who are educated at home or are on school holidays.
A lack of outdoor play activities have been blamed for the drop in fitness levels being experienced by children in the UK. Researchers from the University of Essex found that fitness levels have decreased by eight per cent in the past decade, which is double the world average.
There are multiple benefits associated with outdoor play activities as well as improving physical fitness. According to an article on child development posted on Suite 101, children can gain both social and emotional skills.
The writer of the article believes that outdoor play encourages children to take risks and explore their imagination, as well as interact with other kids.
According to hippymom.com, parents should try to schedule some family exercise time to make sure their children get enough physical activity during the winter months, even if the weather means outdoor play is difficult.
This is particularly relevant for children who are educated at home or are on school holidays.
A lack of outdoor play activities have been blamed for the drop in fitness levels being experienced by children in the UK. Researchers from the University of Essex found that fitness levels have decreased by eight per cent in the past decade, which is double the world average.
There are multiple benefits associated with outdoor play activities as well as improving physical fitness. According to an article on child development posted on Suite 101, children can gain both social and emotional skills.
The writer of the article believes that outdoor play encourages children to take risks and explore their imagination, as well as interact with other kids.
