Outdoor Time Supports Physical, Emotional, and Social Wellbeing
Outdoor play is a simple and natural way to support healthy childhood development. When children spend time outside, they engage their senses, move their bodies, and interact with the world in ways that support both physical and emotional wellbeing.
Key Developmental Benefits of Outdoor Play
Spending time outdoors encourages regular movement, which supports coordination, strength, and overall physical health. Natural environments also provide important sensory input that helps regulate the nervous system, improve focus, and reduce everyday stress in children.
Outdoor play supports creativity and imagination. Unstructured time in nature allows kids to explore, problem-solve, and build resilience through real-world experiences. These moments help children develop confidence, independence, and social skills as they learn to interact with others in a natural setting.
Simple lifestyle habits like outdoor play, regular movement, quality sleep, and balanced routines contribute to a strong foundation for long-term wellbeing. Encouraging children to spend time outside is an easy, accessible way families can support healthy growth and development.
References
- Bento G, Dias G. The importance of outdoor play for young children's healthy development. Porto Biomed J. 2017 Sep-Oct;2(5):157-160. doi: 10.1016/j.pbj.2017.03.003. Epub 2017 Apr 6. PMID: 32258612; PMCID: PMC6806863.
- Yogman, M., A. Garner, J. Hutchinson, K. Hirsh-Pasek, & R.M. Golinkoff. 2018. “The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development.” Clinical Report. Pediatrics 142 (3): 1–18.
- Spencer RA, Joshi N, Branje K, McIsaac JD, Cawley J, Rehman L, Kirk SF, Stone M. Educator perceptions on the benefits and challenges of loose parts play in the outdoor environments of childcare centres. AIMS Public Health. 2019 Oct 29;6(4):461-476. doi: 10.3934/publichealth.2019.4.461. PMID: 31909067; PMCID: PMC6940583.
