Benefits of Outdoor Play for Early Childhood Development
A mother watches her toddler running around in the garden. The little boy is laughing and playing with his teddy bear as he tries to throw it high into the air. Watching her son run and play, she smiles as she thinks of all the benefits of outdoor play.
Perhaps you've noticed how much growth children experience when outdoors.
Today we'll explore some of the benefits of outdoor play and why it helps early childhood development. Read on to learn more.
Social Development Opportunities in Nature
Outdoor play in early childhood provides them with the chance to interact with their peers in creative, meaningful ways. It encourages them to develop the following:
- empathy
- cooperation
- communication skills
- leadership abilities
Social skills are reinforced as children learn to play together. They can play in groups, sharing objects, taking turns, and exploring their environment. Playing in natural settings can teach children to value nature, providing them with an appreciation of the physical world.
Physical Activity Gains from Outdoor Exploration
Outdoor play leads to marked physical activity gains compared to indoors. Benefits from outdoor exploration include:
- increased physical endurance
- greater muscular coordination
- improved balance
- improved gross and fine motor skills
- cardiorespiratory endurance
- agility
- posture
By allowing children to explore their physical limits, like jumping around on a 10ft trampoline, and taking risks in the outdoors, they can gain a variety of physical benefits.
Cognitive Development Through Outdoor Experience
Outdoor play provides children with a valuable environment in which to grow and learn. Many outdoor games allow kids to play using their imagination and come up with solutions in different situations. Sensory stimulation, such as noises and touches, helps them learn to discriminate objects and react.
Playing outside also increases autonomy. This helps children to learn good decision-making skills and gain a sense of independence. Wild outdoor locations can help nurture peace of mind, giving them an emotional escape from the physical world.
Creative Expression Encouraged by Nature
Nature provides plenty of creative opportunities for young learners. Experiencing natural elements like foliage, dirt, and water can be engaging and stimulating. This can help bring out children's inner creativity.
With the chance to observe the changing of the seasons, children can learn to appreciate the beauty of nature. Feeling a connection to the Earth can be calming and therapeutic too. These unique experiences encourage children to express themselves in creative, unique ways.
Expose Your Child to Outdoor Play for a Better Early Childhood Development
Outdoor play offers tremendous benefits for child development at their early stages. It provides an opportunity for children to explore their surroundings, enhance their skills, foster their creativity, and encourage physical activity.
Parents should ensure that their children get adequate opportunities for outdoor play as it can have a positive influence on their growing years.
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