Written by Virginia Cooper from www.learnaliving.co. Image via Pexels.
As screen time has increased, it’s become clear that kids should spend more time outside. Not only does this help improve their physical health, but it can also stave off the mental effects of nature-deficit disorder, which can include depression and attention difficulties. Explore the following guidance to help get your kids outside, courtesy of Happy to Homeschool.
Outdoors Together
There are lots of ways you can enjoy the outdoors together to benefit the entire family. Even simple activities can be worlds of fun – especially for your youngsters.
Making bubbles is always a fun and easy activity that almost all young children enjoy.
If you loved Simon Says and Hide-and-Seek as a kid, chances are your offspring will enjoy these and other classic childhood games.
Most kids love to play in water! Swimming Club Insurance explains that teaching them to swim is a good idea for both health and safety.
Staying Close to Home
Sometimes, the best things in life are right outside your back door. Explore opportunities offered by your very own backyard!
Try storm spotting with your young ones. This is an an outdoor activity that is both entertaining and educational!
Try planting your own home garden. Few activities are more rewarding, relaxing, and inspiring. And you can do it in your own backyard!
Trampolines offer kids a fun way to exercise. Trampoline Gurus notes that picking the right size for your needs is crucial.
When the weather doesn’t cooperate, find creative ways to work in indoor nature activities. Bring a little Mother Nature inside by integrating houseplants in your living space. Don’t forget to open up the blinds and curtains to allow in as much natural light as possible, even on a stormy day. Also have artwork or framed photos of nature scenes throughout the house. This can have positive effects on the brain that imitates time spent outside.
Exploration Is a Go
For older kids, a play area simply won’t do. Here are some ideas to get adolescents, tweens, and teens interested in something other than social media.
Cycling is a wonderful activity for the family. Be sure you and your kids know the most important safety tips when it comes to riding bikes.
A day at the beach is another wonderful idea for family fun. Be sure everybody knows how to enjoy the seashore safely.
If you don’t live near an ocean, you surely have a river nearby. Consider taking the family kayaking.
With the ideas above, you can keep your whole family happy and healthy. Remember, although time indoors has its place, it is the time you spend outside that has the most impact on your overall health and well-being.