All humans are connected to nature in various ways. Likewise, our attachment to the outdoors is probably the most important connection we make in our lives. We are instinctively attracted to it, and it influences many of our formative interactions. But, more and more, parents are noticing their children prefer to stay indoors. Connecting with the outdoors is not only beneficial to children on different levels, it is an absolute necessity. For example, children need Vitamin D to fix calcium to their growing bones, which happens naturally through exposure to sunlight. So, let’s take a look at the mental and physical benefits a child can receive from being outside.
Connecting with nature stimulates a child
- Nature stimulates a child’s senses. From sight to hear, to taste and touch. The outdoors is filled with color and sound. Likewise, it does an amazing job of enhancing a child’s experience.
Nature gets kids moving while helping them deal with stress
- Young children need exercise to relieve stress and help them focus. Sitting on a couch will never do what connecting with nature can do for kids. That’s why getting outside can be a perfect natural de-stressing option.
Nature promotes a child’s natural curiosity
- No matter how you look at it, nature is filled with wonders of all kinds, especially for children of the preschool age. From watching leaves change color and fall to being able to experience a bird building a nest, connecting with nature promotes a child’s sense of wonderment and promotes their curiosity, which leads them to scientific thinking.
Connecting with nature can help build a child’s confidence
- interacting with natural settings, whether it’s a backyard, a park, or the woods, allows a child to set his own rule for play, this helps him realize he has control of his own actions, making him feel more self-confident.
There are many more reasons why connecting with nature is beneficial to children of any age, but these few are indicative of the need for kids today to leave their indoor environment for more than a few minutes each day. Yes, we get that the screen is just easier, but there is nothing on this planet that will work to enhance your child’s life more than connecting with the outdoors.
