Outdoor play is so important for growing bodies! We go outdoors for playtime every day unless it is raining. Playing outdoors is important for the proper development of several aspects of a child's life.
Running, skipping, jumping, climbing, swinging and peddling all help improve and develop gross motor skills. This in turn improves our balance and coordination.
Playing outdoors strengthens cognitive abilities. Children often invent their own games with a specific set of rules or roles to follow. This involves organization, problem solving skills and leadership qualities for successful play.
Being outside promotes cooperative play. Taking turns on the swings or building a sand castle together require patience, communication and cooperation. Learning how to resolve inevitable playground conflict is also an important skill learned.
Children grow to appreciate the sights, sounds, textures and smells of the world around them. They learn to explore their curiosity about plants and animals by observing them in their natural habitat. The outdoors is a child's classroom!