Benefits of Outdoor Play to Children
We all know that playing outside can be fun and rewarding for children, but what is it exactly about playing outside that helps kids develop and why is it so critical?
Research points us to the following benefits for children with or without a disability:
Brain development
Motor development -especially playing on natural elements like rocks, trees, etc. as opposed to playground equipment
Emotional well-being, resilience and social interaction
Stress reduction
Increasing physical fitness
Raising levels of vitamin D
Reducing ADHD symptoms
Hanscrom, A., Schoen, S. Using Occupational Therapy Principles in Developing a Nature Camp for All Children. SIS Quarterly. AOTA, Inc. 2014. Retrieved from: https://www.aota.org/~/media/Corporate/Files/Secure/Publications/SIS-Quarterly-Newsletters/SI/SISIS-Dec-2014.pdf