9 benefits of kids being outside

With the sun finally coming out to play we have been loving spending more time outside! After months of being stuck inside due to the rain, it feels so good to feel the benefits of the great outdoors.

Apart from it feeling good to feel the sun on our faces, there are so many other benefits to getting outside with your family. We have put together a list of 9 of those benefits, to give you a few extra reasons to plan some fun days out this summer.

What are the benefits of children spending time outdoors:

1. Physical activity: Outdoor play allows kids to run, jump, climb, and engage in other physical activities that help them develop gross motor skills and stay active. Having the opportunity to move their bodies is a great way to get rid of some excess energy, whilst also improving their physical development.
2. Improved mood: Exposure to natural light and fresh air can help improve a child's mood and reduce stress. This is especially important to remember if you are all feeling a bit tired and grumpy. I know you may feel like having a lazy morning on the sofa after a sleepless night or a morning filled with tantrums, but the best thing you can do is bundle everyone outside, even if it is just a short walk or trip to the local park.
3. Vitamin D: Sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, which is important for healthy bone development. You can get some vitamin D from foods such as oily fish, red meat and egg yolks
4. Socialization: Outdoor play provides opportunities for children to interact with others, make friends, and learn social skills. So book in some playdates and pack your picnics!
5. Creativity: Outdoor play encourages children to use their imagination and creativity as they explore their surroundings. I’m always amazed at the games my children come up with outside. From building castles with moats at the beach, turning sticks into wands in the woods and making dens out of anything they can find.
6. Cognitive development: Outdoor play can help improve a child's attention span, problem-solving skills, and ability to think critically. When we go out on family days, my children love to be the leader. This may seem like just a bit of fun, but I see them using so many skills as they work out where they want to go, how they are going to get there and how to get over any obstacles they may come across.
7. Sense of independence: Outdoor play allows kids to explore and discover on their own, which can help build their sense of independence and self-confidence. You can start doing this with really simple things like going for a walk from your house, but letting your child choose the whole route. I’m sure your child will love the responsibility and will find it so exciting to explore new places.
8. Appreciation for nature: Spending time outside can help children develop a love and appreciation for nature and the environment. My husband and I have always taken the time to stop and admire the view when we are out and exploring and, recently, I have noticed that my 8-year-old has started doing the same! It’s amazing to see him really take in his surroundings and appreciate the beauty of where we live.
9. Better sleep: Exposure to natural light during the day can help regulate a child's sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep at night. I don't think this one needs any other explanation, who doesn't want their child to have a better night's sleep?