Tired Kids Are Happy Kids: The Importance of Letting Your Kids Play Outside

Tired Kids Are Happy Kids: The Importance of Letting Your Kids Play Outside

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One of the most important parts in the development of a child comes through the fun of playing. Whether it’s with friends or alone, kids can learn a wealth of skills that will benefit them in the future and help shape them both physically and mentally. While technology does have a role to play in this process, there is no better way to help your child grow and develop than by getting them outside. If you’re looking for some fun outdoor activities to help entertain your kids and keep them fit and healthy, here are few recommendations.

Go for a Nature Walk

Getting outside is not only positive for your child, but it can be a wonderful family experience. Heading out for a nature walk will both bring you together and also give you the opportunity to teach your kids about different parts of the natural world and their importance. Whether you’re spotting birds, looking at insects under a magnifying glass, or learning about plants and trees, you will become closer with your child and they will develop a stronger bond with nature, becoming more inquisitive and observant.

Make Your Own Playground

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This might seem like a daunting task, but it can actually be relatively easy to build your own small backyard playground, or to put together pieces you’ve purchased. If you’re purchasing equipment, be sure to select pieces that come installed with safety measures, such as plum trampolines and swings. If you’re building and installing your own playground equipment, then test it in advance. Having a nearby outdoor playground will encourage physical activity and a healthier lifestyle.

Backyard Camping

Heading out into the wild on a camping trip can be a daunting task with a young child, so if you’re looking for a bit of a thrill without the worry, backyard camping can be a great warm-up to the real thing. Enjoy some time sleeping under the stars, barbecuing, telling stories, and more, but be sure to leave your cell-phones and other technology inside. This will help to improve their sense of imagination, as they will be relying on themselves and not the internet to do things like tell stories or play campfire games.

Gardening

Another great way to teach your kids the importance of nature as well as healthy habits, such as eating fruit and vegetables, is by spending some time together in the garden. If your child is very young, consider buying some plastic or wooden tools for them to use. Try planting a tree or larger plant together – they will be able to watch it grow alongside themselves in the future.

There are plenty of great ways to get your kid out of the house and ensure an active and healthy lifestyle, but the motivation must begin with the parents, so start planning your outdoor family fun now.

Images by Daddy-David and CinCool used under Creative Commons License.

Author’s bio:
Haley Hobart has been a mom for 10 years and frequently contributes to parenting sites with her expertise. She lives in London with her partner and 3 kids.

About the author

Brad Mitchell is the founder and publisher of Northeast Ohio Parent, Northeast Ohio Boomer & Beyond and owner of Mitchell Media LLC. Northeast Ohio Parent was launched by Brad and a team in early 2014, and Boomer & Beyond launched in 2015. Brad has served in many different capacities in the magazine industry since the late 1980s in both Cleveland and his hometown of Chicago. He is married and has grown children, a granddaughter and a golden retriever. Brad can be reached at [email protected]

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