Children should be given every opportunity to play. They need to use this time to explore and learn more about the world around them. Many people believe play is a child’s work.
However, today’s children often play indoors rather than heading outside. While having a secret playroom behind a bookshelf door might be nice, children also need to get outdoors because too much indoor play can harm their health.
Why is Outdoor Play Best?
Research shows that children’s brains develop faster when they play outside rather than indoors. They perform better on multiple levels and in school. In addition, children who play outdoors make more friends because they are enjoyable to be around. Who doesn’t want to be around a person with an active imagination? They are always coming up with fun things to do.
Researchers found children enjoy playing outdoors more when the emphasis isn’t on improving their physical health. The goal is to get young children moving, regardless of what they are doing. However, one drawback is that parents may be concerned about neighborhood safety and letting their children play outside. Communities must recognize this and find ways to eliminate these fears so children can benefit from outside play.
Children who spend plenty of time outdoors when they are young develop this habit. They will remain active as they age, and their risk of obesity decreases. The habits they learn when young are more likely to stay with them for a lifetime.
Nature Deficit Disorder
Researchers refer to a condition known as nature deficit disorder when discussing the dangers of children not playing outdoors. Children who live close to nature and are encouraged to spend time outdoors experience less stress. Their motor coordination improves, and they are better able to focus. Being outdoors in nature allows them to disconnect from the world, slow down, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Their blood pressure decreases when they spend time outdoors, and their health improves.
Indoor Games
Parents often argue that their children get lots of physical activity indoors. Children are getting physical activity thanks to game systems that allow them to interact and move around. Parents may allow them to play Just Dance, Wii Fit, or Dance-Dance Revolution and not feel guilty because they are up and moving around.
This physical activity prevents them from creating games and interacting freely with their friends. They also miss the opportunity to connect with nature when they play indoor video games. When allowed to play, most kids aren’t going to choose tennis, bowling, or dancing. They want to run around, explore nature, and have fun with whatever they find.
They may embark on an adventure with an intended destination only to get sidetracked and find something they love more. Try doing that with a Wii tennis or golf game. It’s not possible. Violent video games also lead to children who have violent tendencies. Put those games away and go outside with the kids for fresh air and family fun.
Indoor playgrounds are an option for days when the weather is not conducive to outdoor play. They provide kids with a sanctuary where they can have fun and enjoy interacting with one another. Parents may want to create an indoor playground in a hidden room in the home. People won’t know what is tucked away behind the bookshelf door, so it can be a secret the kids share with their close friends. They will want to show it off and play, getting the physical activity they need to thrive. Parents will find installing an indoor playground behind a hidden door will delight their children and visitors alike.
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