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