Outdoor play activities provide physical, emotional and social benefits
07/01/2010 Outdoor play activities are important for children's physical social and emotional development, according to Suite 101.
A lack of outdoor activity is said to have been a contributing factor to the rising levels of obesity among children. Figures released from the NHS last month revealed that one in five girls and one in four boys are obese by the time they start school.
It is believed that if children took part in more outdoor play activities they would receive numerous health benefits, including improved overall fitness. These benefits also include a reduction in stress levels and improved sleep.
The article states that: "Outdoor play also encourages children to take risks... and when kids spend time outside with peers, it gives them the opportunity to build the kind of social skills they need to forge healthy friendships throughout life."
It added that outdoor play activities can help children improve their imagination and explore their interests.
Parents often have difficulty encouraging outdoor play during the winter months however there are ways around this. If you have a trampoline it may be worth investing in a trampoline tent, which allows children to bounce around without worrying about the weather.
A lack of outdoor activity is said to have been a contributing factor to the rising levels of obesity among children. Figures released from the NHS last month revealed that one in five girls and one in four boys are obese by the time they start school.
It is believed that if children took part in more outdoor play activities they would receive numerous health benefits, including improved overall fitness. These benefits also include a reduction in stress levels and improved sleep.
The article states that: "Outdoor play also encourages children to take risks... and when kids spend time outside with peers, it gives them the opportunity to build the kind of social skills they need to forge healthy friendships throughout life."
It added that outdoor play activities can help children improve their imagination and explore their interests.
Parents often have difficulty encouraging outdoor play during the winter months however there are ways around this. If you have a trampoline it may be worth investing in a trampoline tent, which allows children to bounce around without worrying about the weather.
