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How Long Should Children Play Outside?

27/01/2023

An hour of outdoor playtime each day can immensely benefit children. Here are some of those benefits: 

  • More physical activity and improved fitness 
  • More time away from smartphones and internet 
  • Lower chances of developing short-sightedness 
  • Higher vitamin D levels (because of brief sun exposure) 
  • Good for children’s mental health and wellbeing 

Also, outdoor play can help children build their appetite for risk and experimentation. They can also test their limits in jumping and running (as long as the outdoor environment is safe). It’s also a good way for them to further explore their surroundings and take an actual look of the natural environment (instead of staring at screens all day). 

As mentioned, outdoor play takes away screen time. This will benefit children because they will use their bones and muscles more. This is critical in their early years because they need to have a strong physique so that they can stand, walk, run and jump properly (and participate in more physical activities). Outdoor play can also help children develop their confidence. In contrast, lots of screen time and internet use can result in isolation (and less time and energy for activities with other kids). 

Outdoor play ideas 

Now that we’ve highlighted the benefits of outdoor play, let’s now talk about some of the activities children can do outside: 

  • Looking at and observing different people, trees, vehicles and other objects outside 
  • Having a tummy time on a blanket or towel 
  • Crawling through old boxes or under furniture 
  • Throwing balls 
  • Pushing or wheeling toys and objects 
  • Blowing bubbles and marveling as they float away 
  • Playing in sand or mud 
  • Going on a nature walk 

If done regularly, these are all simple activities that can immensely benefit children. Even if we just take them outside and there are no planned activities, children can come up with their own and immediately start using the objects around them. 

With more outdoor play, children can also practice their creativity as they come up with their games and activities. This can help them develop their own initiative and independence which are crucial in getting them ready for the big school.