We all know that playing outside is good for kids. It lets them enjoy the fresh air, use their imagination and have fun. And now, a recent Canadian study suggests there are added health benefits for kids who play outdoors on their own or with friends.
Researchers looked at data from more than 1,000 parents of Grade 5 and 6 students at 16 public schools across Toronto. Kids wore an activity tracker for seven days and parents were asked to self-report how often they allowed their kids to go out on their own.
The study found that children who were allowed time outside to explore on their own or with friends were more physically active than kids who were always supervised.
It's important for children to be physically active and to start appreciating activity and fitness at a young age. Children who are physically active and experience success in movement activities show higher levels of self-esteem and a greater sense of accomplishment, according to an article by Rae Pica, a movement education consultant in Earlychildhood News.
Physical activity, which includes organized sports and unstructured activity like walking and playing outside, will also help children to:
• Develop cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, and bone density
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Reduce the risk of chronic disease and health problems
• Feel better every day, through improved mental health and well-being
If you're looking for ways to encourage your kids to play outside more often, we have many playsets, swings and trampolines to let them be active and have fun.