While a playground might seem like the perfect place for kids to “play” it’s also a great teaching tool in disguise. Why do you ask? Playgrounds help children develop skills like leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and where they build valuable social relationships. They’re also a ton of fun! So why is outdoor play important? Read on for more details, plus a few creative outdoor play ideas.
Why is Outdoor Play Important?
This post was sponsored by Landscape Structures as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central. All opinions expressed in my post are my own.
Playing outdoors provides kids space to burn energy and exercise on their terms. To run free, and be loud….to laugh, be creative, and be imaginative. Young children learn to master physical skills like running, climbing, balance, and more. Outside play offers more than physical benefits, but cognitive and social benefits too. While children are enjoying the outdoors, they’re building communication skills and vocabulary.
It’s a great big world out there, and kids can truly appreciate the beauty around them. They can watch butterflies and birds, smell flowers, hear a train or plane, touch a bug or plant. Being outside allows children the opportunity to expand upon their senses, to grow, and learn. It also helps build their immune systems!
Watch this inspiring video titled: “For A Better Tomorrow, We Play Today” by Landscape Structures.
Outdoor Play Ideas
- Take them on a nature walk. Before heading outdoors, create a list together of fun things you might see on a nature walk, then cross them off your list as you find them. Will you find a 3 point leaf, a slimy bug, or a smooth rock?
- Find an open area and create an obstacle course for your children and their friends. Use old tires, boxes, and other items to make it fun!
- Grab some chalk and bean bags for tic tac toe or hopscotch.
- Water paint, water balloons, and water tables always make for hours of fun outdoors.
Landscape Structures has partnered with University of Minnesota’s Institute of Childhood Development to research how play helps develop the whole child by creating leaders, encouraging collaboration, and teaching the values of problem solving. Do you have a Landscape Structures playground near you? We have one just a few miles from our home that the boys enjoy playing at. I hope this post has encouraged you and your children to get outdoors and play!
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Anna Almvig says
I don’t have kids (yet), but I live near my nephew and we always go on rain walks with my dog. We live in Seattle so if we stay inside whenever it rains, then we’d be hermits! Besides, it’s fun to get muddy and explore nature 🙂
SHELLEY R ZUREK says
I always hoped to encourage a love of the outdoors. I don’t think I was super successful, I probably didn’t model it too well myself.
Audrey T says
Outdoor play is critical. My daughter’s elementary school JUST started to have recess/outdoor play for the kids after parents put pressure on the district.
Carissa Pelletier says
I think we do have that brand of play structure near us. My kids love the opportunities to climb and slide as well as learn from the engraved displays. It seems like the earlier you let them play like this, the stronger and less of a klutz they become!
Holly Duce says
My kids play sports year round but its often difficult to get them to play outside otherwise. Always glad they did after I get them out there! We need to make it a bigger priority for the family. Thanks for the reminder and the fun suggestions!
Rhonda Brown says
That’s the worst part of living in the Midwest. The kids are stuck inside so much during the Winter. I love it when Spring is finally here and they can get outside and get the fresh air and sun! It’s a great way for them to expel their energy too!
Denise Hoyle says
I agree that it is SO important for kids to get their outside play time – not only does it help their health and attitudes, but my favorite thing is it helps them SLEEP!
Kenda says
Our neighborhood park has a Landscape Structure play area and he LOVES it. He could stay there all day.
Jennifer says
That’s awesome Kenda!
Honey + Lime (@honeyandlimeco) says
I totally agree with you, outdoor play gets kids moving, thinking, and socializing. Love this!
mommainflipflop (@mommainflipflop) says
My husband and I were just discussing this last evening as the kids were outside. They play outside in the winter, but not the same as they do when it’s warm. I’m longly for more nice days where they dn’t have to be in hats and gloves. Great post.