How Outdoor Play Helps Develop Physical and Mental Strength in Children

It is a delight to watch children playing outdoors. The energy, joyful screams, and little wins of catching a ball or climbing a tree bring smiles to every parent’s face. These days, however, screens keep competing for attention and children spend less time outdoors. This brings up a serious concern. Are they getting enough exercise? Even the most active indoor games cannot match the benefits of playing outdoor games. In this blog, we will see how outdoor play helps a child’s development and how you can encourage outdoor play.

Benefits Of Outdoor Play For Children

Outdoor play is an active and engaging way for children to learn about the world around them. For toddlers, the benefits of outdoor play in preschool are invaluable for setting the foundation for lifelong learning and physical health. But how does outdoor play help a child's development?​  Let us look into the top benefits of playing outdoor games.

Physical Health Benefits Of Outdoor Play​

Outdoor play is a natural way to boost children’s physical health. Stepping outside and increasing activity levels by outdoor play can have numerous benefits for children. So how does outdoor play help a child's development in terms of physical health?

•  Gross and fine motor skills : 

Activities like climbing a wall or a balance board refine motor skills and balance. Children love playing in open spaces with skateboards, bicycles or even their toy cars while they tune their motor skills.

•  Improved fitness

Running around will help build stamina and also strengthen muscles. Riding around on kids ride-on toys outdoors will not only keep them entertained but also strengthen their leg and core muscles as they steer and pedal.

•  Reduced risk of obesity

Physical activity will burn calories. Among the benefits of playing outdoor games is their ability to promote weight management in children. Look for toys that keep kids active like a cricket set.

•  Better sleep

A good day’s play outdoors will ensure a restful sleep at night. As per studies1, exposure to daylight can help to realign disrupted circadian rhythms. Set up regular sessions to maximize the health benefits of outdoor play for children.

•  Stronger immune system

Playing outdoors benefits immunity. Exposure to fresh air and sunlight will give a strong immune system. Outdoor toys like  Badminton sets and Hopscotch can keep them engaged for hours.

•  Cardiovascular endurance

Active play also improves heart health. One of the key benefits of playing outdoor games is their ability to strengthen heart muscles. As children play around, jumping, running and walking, they enhance their cardiovascular endurance. 

•  Increases vitamin D

Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, essential for bone health. Time outdoors will help children absorb it. To keep them safe and comfortable outdoors, consider setting up an outdoor tent. They will love it.

Mental Health Benefits Of Outdoor Play​

Not only physical health benefits but outdoor play and brain development​ are also linked. Let us see how outdoor play helps a child's development in terms of mental health.

•  Reduced stress and anxiety

Playing outside can be a stress reliever. Outdoor activities release endorphins and reduce cortisol levels thus reducing anxiety. This connection between outdoor play and brain development highlights how outdoor activities can positively impact the mental well-being of children. Calming outdoor activities like swings and bubble guns can be great for this.

•  Improved mood and self-esteem

Fresh air improves oxygen levels and lifts the mood of children.  Engaging in outdoor play and brain development activities strengthens mental well-being by encouraging focus and emotional stability. Interactive electronic toys for kids can elevate a child’s mood by adding excitement and engagement.  Outdoor play also promotes social connections thus improving confidence and self-esteem.

•  Increased creativity and imagination

Another playing outdoors benefit on mental health is boosted creativity. Playing close with nature sparks creativity. It serves as a canvas for the imagination. Unstructured outdoor activities with toys like sandbox playsets or dough playsets will let their creativity flow.

•  Better social skills

Outdoor play teaches teamwork and sharing. It also improves communication skills. By playing group games, kids experience the playing outdoors benefits, learning to work together and communicate effectively.

How To Encourage Outdoor Play

With these playing outdoor benefits in mind, parents should encourage outdoor play for kids. We have some tips to help you include outdoor play in your child’s routine.

• Follow their interests

Let your child choose what they want to play. You can give them options like scooters or hoopla rings, but if your child is into Hot Wheels, then take them along outdoors. Your child’s interest should come first.

• Make it fun

You can make outdoor time a fun activity. Include toys like sand and water tables or tents to make it more entertaining.

• Build friends

Encourage your child to play with friends. You can even let them join a football or basketball club.

• Get them fun outdoor toys

Invest in outdoor toys for kids that keep them active like bicycles, swings and balls. 

• Involve in their play

Every parent should also be their child’s playmate. Have some family time kicking a football or bounding on a trampoline. These memories last a lifetime and are priceless benefits of outdoor play for children.

•  Limit screen time

Limit your child’s screen time. Set boundaries for daily use so that there is enough time to play outdoors.

• Make it routine

Schedule outdoor playtime and make it a regular activity for your child. The health benefits of outdoor play in preschool are amplified as it becomes a daily routine.

Outdoor Toys From Snooplay That Encourage Active Play 

Outdoor play becomes even more exciting with the right toys. At Snooplay, you’ll find a wide range of toys designed to keep children active and entertained. Here are some great options to get your kid all of those  playing outdoor benefits:

Hand Minton Play Set: Lightweight and fun, this badminton-inspired game improves hand-eye coordination and motor skills. Hand Minton is a great way to explore the benefits of playing outdoor games​ while making family time more enjoyable.

Skateboard for Kids: This Skateboard for kids builds balance and coordination​. It is a perfect choice for kids to experience the benefits of outdoor play​

Pluto Magic Swing Car: Pluto Magic Swing Car ride-on toy, with LED lights and music, enhances coordination and core strength. It is ideal for toddlers and preschoolers to experience the health benefits of outdoor play​.

Reznor Flexible Swing Seat: A classic outdoor toy, this flexible swing seat helps strengthen grip and balance, offering the benefits of outdoor play for children​. It is a must-have addition to any outdoor space. 

Football with Air Pump: Perfect for group play, this size 1 football develops teamwork skills while promoting the benefits of outdoor play in preschool​. It’s an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health and motor skills.

How Long Should Children Spend Outside

Experts recommend that children should spend at least one to two hours outdoors every day.  Activities like playing in a park, strolling or nature walks can increase the benefits of outdoor play in preschool settings.

Conclusion

Now that you have known about the various benefits of outdoor play for children, it is time to put it into action. So step outside with your child and let them explore the endless possibilities outdoors.  You will find plenty of toys at Snooplay to make your together time even more enjoyable.

FAQ

What is an outdoor play?

Outdoor play is any play activity that is done outdoors. This can include running, climbing, playing games, or exploring nature. Playing outdoors benefits children in many ways.

Why is outdoor play important for child development

Outdoor play improves various physical and cognitive abilities of children. Outdoor play and brain development are very much interlinked. Improved social interaction, sleep, and overall well-being are other main benefits of outdoor play for children.

What are the physical benefits of outdoor play for children

Physical benefits of outdoor play include improved fitness, strengthening muscles, reduced health risks and boosted immunity among other benefits

What are the mental benefits of outdoor play

Improved creativity and imagination, reduced stress, better mood, and social skills are some mental benefits of outdoor play