Many parents and caregivers have faced re-engagement challenges since the Federal Government’s under-16’s social media ban, late last year. However, a recent Australian poll showed that Aussie kids are still spending well over the recommended two hours a day on screens (including television). These new laws present a very real opportunity for families to reclaim outdoor playtime. This process can be supported by parents modelling the characteristics and behaviour that they would like to see in their children.
Outdoor Activities vs Indoor Activities
The trend of “Nature Play” where structured toys, like mud kitchens, sand tables, or water play/bubble toys, help bridge the gap between indoor comfort and outdoor exploration, for younger children. Older children benefit from adventure-based activities, like hikes, camping and kayaking. These pursuits support teenagers in exploring and developing their own independence.
To keep children stimulated, parents can regularly suggest different activities or make current tasks more challenging. For example, limiting resources to encourage critical thinking and resilience.
Indoor activities remain beneficial for children of all ages when used to enhance creativity and mental stimulation through activities like the creative arts and puzzles.
With the diversity of retail stores now available, the variety of toys can be brought more easily than ever. The ability to source from a reliable wholesale toy supplier allows stores to find durable, high-energy equipment that competes with the “instant hit” of a computer tablet or video game.
The benefits of Outdoor Play
The physical benefits of outdoor play are numerous. Outdoor activities build cardiovascular health, boost motor skills, support healthy body weight, improve immune system functioning and naturally increase essential Vitamin D levels.
Other than physical enrichment, outdoor activities provide a rich sensory environment that builds self-reliance and cognitive growth. Meaningful outdoor play promotes emotional well-being and helps develop confidence. This type of play is often characterised by child-led exploration with minimal adult input, enabling them to develop all five of their senses.
Research Supports Outdoor Play
A 2022 study, Child’s Play: Examining the Association Between Time Spent Playing and Child Mental Health, found that interaction with nature reduces stress and improves mood. This study found that parents’ anxiety around fear of injury and increased screen time are the main reasons children’ s outdoor playtime is reduced. The ability for kids to have access to green spaces and recreational areas has been shown to lower psychological developmental issues. So get your kid outdoors.
Outdoor Toys That Foster Development
It is important to provide children with age-appropriate toys to establish a stimulating environment that fosters a better connection to the outdoors. Toys and equipment that encourage physical activity are key here. Climbing frames, a separate outdoor adventure space (e.g. cubby house), balance beams, sports equipment, bikes or ride-on vehicles all contribute to an energising atmosphere for children to engage with.
Outside Play Reduces Anxiety
The Kids Mental Health Foundation has found that deliberate outside play significantly reduces children’s anxiety by lowering stress-related cortisol. Here, nature acts as a sensory break from urban environments, decreasing the symptoms of anxiety. Physical activity also increases natural endorphins, which promote a greater sense of well-being. Generally, children who spend regular time in natural environments are calmer, have better attention spans and show less fatigue.
How to Get Your Kids Outdoors
Ultimately, as parents, it is our responsibility to lead by example for our children. To engage your children in outdoor activities, try making it part of their daily routine-even if it’s just involving them in outdoor chores.
Another way to encourage your children is to create inviting outdoor spaces that support their development through nature-based play. Geocaching is a tangible first step for kids who are trying to transition away from screens and into the outdoors. Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game that combines smartphone technology with outdoor activities.
As a parent, set some healthy boundaries to encourage constructive outside time. An example of this direction is the need to spend a certain amount of time outdoors each day. Enabling children to choose their own activities develops autonomy and decision-making skills. It also means they will be more likely to participate in that activity.