Why Children Need Outdoor Playtime From An Early Age

 

All parents want to watch their child grow into a healthy and successful adult.

However, the last few years, with the pandemic and environmental catastrophes, have been quite hard on everyone’s mental health. If you and your child have been feeling more anxious, isolated, and frazzled, you’re not alone.

According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there has been a 24% increase in mental health-related emergencies for children aged 5 to 11.

Don’t worry; you can alleviate this situation by letting your children play outdoors.

Read on to learn why outdoor playtime is important for children from an early age.

Reduced Cortisol Levels

Cortisol is a hormone released by the adrenal glands that controls stress. Too much cortisol production can be unhealthy for the brain and the body since it can lead to chronic stress.

Chronic stress usually means adrenal hyperstimulation which can fatigue the mind and the body. How can you help reduce cortisol levels? Through outdoor playtime.

Let your kids spend time in nature. This is an effective way to decrease stress and make their mind healthier and more productive.

Improved Physical Health

No parent wants their child to become a couch potato with their eyes glued to a device's screen. You need to encourage them to play outdoors for better physical health. More outdoor time is strongly associated with lower obesity rates, better motor development, and lowered risk of getting myopia.

Reports show that 61% of children in the US are Vitamin-D deficient.

Playing under the sun is also the best way to get Vitamin D, making their bodies stronger and healthier.

Better Sleep and Mental Health

If your child is getting poor sleep, it can make them more irritable, depressed, and anxious. However, studies show that people who spend more time in a natural environment are likelier to get more sleep.

Outdoor playtime also means improved mental health. Research shows that the more children spend time in green spaces, the likelier it is for them to have better emotional health.

Are you looking for healthier environments to promote your child’s mental and emotional health? Enroll your child at the Ivy League Learning Center in Kansas today. This top-notch learning center offers multiple comprehensive educational programs for children and a highly nourishing environment.

Reach out to them now to learn more about their childhood education center in Overland Park KS.