The benefits of outdoor play

Playing outdoors, throughout the year, allows children to develop greater levels of self-confidence, independence and self-esteem. Play with others or even individually is just as important. Children become aware of limits, boundaries and challenges within their play. When children are used to playing outdoors, it can build their confidence in their surroundings and abilities. Meaning they are more likely to try new activities, like swings or slides on a climbing frame. Outdoor play benefits children in many ways. These include physical, social, and mental health elements. 

What are the physical benefits of outdoor play?

• Motor skills: Outdoor play can help to develop children’s gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, as well as strength.
• Vitamin D: Playing outside means more exposure to Vitamin D levels. This helps maintain healthy bones, muscles, and teeth.
• Obesity prevention: Moving more and being more active helps prevent obesity problems developing. A growing concern in young people right now.

Are there any social benefits of outdoor play?

• Friendships: Socialising within play can aide children in developing healthy ways of forming friendships, learning about ‘give and take’ and shared tasks and responsibilities in friendships.
• Social and emotional skills: The ability to practice problem solving, experience turn taking, as well as receive and give encouragement are excellent social skills. Exercising self-control, and experiencing safe risk taking within a supported environment are great developmentally.
• Empathy: Shared play helps children develop empathy and patience.

What about mental health benefits?

• Self-confidence: Allowing children to develop self-confidence, independence, and therefore boost their self-esteem, is a fantastic for mental health growth.
• Stress and fatigue: There is the chance that outdoor play may help lower stress and mental fatigue issues.
• Attention deficit disorder: Potential to help re-establish functioning in children with attention deficit related disorders.

Additional benefits include stimulating creativity as well as assisting in developing problem solving skills. Working within peer groups can establish a sense of place. The list is potentially endless, as to the benefits and positive impact outdoor play can have on our children. A climbing frame can really support outdoor play, in all areas, making it a valued purchase for your children as they grow.