We know playing outside is great for kids’ physical and mental wellbeing; that getting dirty, puffed, and occasionally bruised, supports healthy development and makes them happier and easier to get along with.
But despite knowing all of this, it can still be tough to get kids off the screen and out the door. So how can we help our kids benefit from what’s great about the outdoors?
Treat it as essential. By reframing daily ‘outdoor time’ as important as eating healthy meals, brushing teeth, or having a regular bedtime, you’ll start to find more time for it.
Every minute counts. Pressed for time? Send kids outside for 5-10 minutes to blow off steam, run around the block, play swingball, or do a quick scavenger hunt.
Don’t be afraid of the dark. Winter might present fewer opportunities to get kids outside. But if you have a safe garden where they’re not at risk from cars, why not try hide-and-seek? Or take them for a walk at dusk to watch the stars come out.
Organise outdoor play dates. Other caregivers often really appreciate you getting their kids outside too. Let them know that you’d like the kids to play outside, and to dress their kid(s) for the activity and weather.
Encourage budding entrepreneurs. Help older kids come up with ideas for a part-time job outside. Dog walking is a natural. Gardening, lawn mowing, stacking firewood, or helping an elderly neighbour, will get them outside and teach them about money.
Walk to school. Walk with them to show young school kids the best, then let them do it solo when you both feel they’re ready.
Spend time. If you go outside, it’s likely that little ones will want to be there too. Make it fun: set up ‘camp’, have a picnic, fill the paddling pool, or simply read a book while your kids run around.
Use urban parks. Make it a ritual to explore your local parks each week, adapting your activities to the season and landscape. You’ll soon both look forward to it.
If you put in the effort to get the kids playing outside, you’ll all reap the benefits.
ECOSTORE, 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay, T: 09 360 8477, www.ecostore.co.nz
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Published 4 March 2022