The Health Advantages of The Kids Playing Outside

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Sending children outside to play may not only be healthier for them physically, but it may be better for them psychologically too. A research project called Child of Our Time produced by the BBC is tracking the growth of twenty-five children from the time they’re born until they become adults. After reaching the midpoint of this study, they’ve made an important observation - children who play outside laugh more.

They say that laughter is the best medicine and this may hold true for kids too. Not only is laughter a stress reliever, but the physical movements involved with laughing gives the heart and lungs a workout. Laughter also stimulates the immune system to fight off colds and viruses that children are so susceptible too. If playing outside causes children to laugh more - it’s something they need more of.

Children playing outside experience other health benefits as well. They’re more likely to be adventurous and open to new experiences than a child who lives life vicariously – parked in front of the television set. Outdoor play fuels the imagination of children and teaches them how to be resourceful by creating their own entertainment. It also brings them closer to nature.

Of course there are also the more obvious health benefits of playing outside such as positive benefits on the heart and a reduction in the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes and obesity. Running and jumping builds stronger bones and muscles. How many children are getting enough vitamin D? The best source of vitamin D is the sun and when a child spends all his time indoors, his risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency is high - which could lead to health problems later in life.

Obviously, the benefits of playing outside are many; but the sad reality is that the time kids spend outdoors has dropped significantly over the past few decades. Now kids spend their time with fictional game characters instead of other children - and that lost time can never be replaced. Isn’t it time to cut off the television set and give your child a chance to explore the great outdoors? Once you do, listen hard – and don’t be surprised if you hear the sound of laughter.

by Dr. Kristie