Why your kids need nature play more than ever - PART 1
Follow my blog with Bloglovinp>It seems inevitable that the pandemic is reshaping every facet of our lives and our children's education is no exception. Some families are opting for 100% remote learning while other have always homeschooled their kids. Some parents, like myself, were really hoping for a return to face to face classes especially for younger children. Regardless of the learning scenario your children end up in, there is one addition all children will benefit from tremendously that they need now more than ever - time spent outdoors engaged in unstructured nature play. I have spent over a decade in the field of education. I have noticed and been extremely frustrated with the steady decline in the amount of time that children in school get to spend outdoors or even engaged indoor play that is unstructured and gross motor oriented.
It's apparent to me that children today have a very different relationship with nature and being outside than I did as a child. Children in previous generations spent much more time outside in unstructured, child directed play. They ran, climbed, jumped, got dirty, played in puddles, collected bugs, rocks, and other natural objects and did so with much less adult direction than children experience today. All the while, researchers predict that the human life expectancy will drop for the current generation instead of increasing as it has for most of modern history. This is due in part to a multitude of health epidemics occurring on an epic scale such as obesity, heart disease, cancer, ADHD, depression and diabetes (Park & Riley, 2015; Cooper, 2015). It is encouraging to realize that connecting with nature regularly may offset the risks of developing some of these conditions. The benefits of play in natural green spaces for children cannot be overstated. Children’s overall development is promoted through outdoor play in a natural environment (Cooper, 2015). In modern history, human beings are spending less and less time outdoors than in previous generations, particularly in Western civilizations (Dadvand et al., 2017). However, human beings still rely on nature for our physical existence and clearly development is optimized through frequent contact with the natural world.
Why are kids not playing outside?
Many children spend most of their waking hours at school or childcare and the majority of those hours are spent doing sedentary activities (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013). When children come home parents often have household responsibilities that require their attention. The result of this is that frequently, there is not time for outside play and parents do not always feel safe letting children play outside alone (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013). Therefore, it is vitally important that the adults in a child’s life make a conscious effort to intentionally plan time for outdoor play for the children in their care. Too often, outside play time is seen as a luxury or a reward for good behavior or just something teachers do if they have time after completing seemingly more important academic activities. Ironically, increasing the amount of time spent outdoors has a greater impact on children’s academic performance than additional seat work (Park & Riley, 2015). If you are doing remote learning with your kids or a hybrid schedule of some kind then you have some degree of flexibility with your child's schedule; this is a perfect opportunity to increase the amount of time available for outside play!
Nature play benefits physical development
One of the most obvious benefits of spending more time outdoors is that it increases the likelihood that a child will engage in more physical activity. According to Torkar et al. (2017), a study was done comparing children’s activity levels while playing on a traditional playground to a natural forest playground. The study found that children were more physically active on the forest playground than the traditional playground indicating that natural play areas motivate children to be more physically active (Torkar et al., 2017). ). A sedentary lifestyle is associated with increased risk of obesity, risk of heart attack and stroke, diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea (Park & Riley, 2015; Cooper, 2015). Playing vigorously outdoors strengthens the pulmonary and cardiovascular systems, increasing lung function and strengthening the heart (Park & Riley, 2015). Despite concerns over sun exposure and skin cancer risks, exposure to sunlight is vitally important to children’s development for many reasons. Spending time outdoors exposes children’s skin to the sunlight, producing Vitamin D, naturally (Park & Riley, 2015). Just 15 minutes a day of sun exposure will help a child to receive the recommended daily amount of Vitamin D (Park & Riley, 2015).
Exposure to sunlight may reduce the risk of developing myopia
Besides sunlight’s important role in Vitamin D production and bone health, another important reason why children need to be exposed to sunlight daily is that it seems to be correlated with improved eyesight (Park & Riley, 2015). Children who spend more time outdoors have reduced rates of myopia, or nearsightedness (Cooper, 2015). Myopia has increased in children and adolescents recently and some researchers believe this is due to an increase in time spent indoors looking at various devices with screens (TVs, video games, phones, or computers) (Park & Riley, 2015). With every facet of life moving to an online platform from shopping to school to religious services, reducing screen time has become more difficult than ever. Prolonged exposure to sunlight may prevent the development of or slow the advancement of myopia, reducing the need for corrective lenses (Park & Riley, 2015). Obviously, you can't stare directly at the sun!
Nature play improves immune function
It seems enough cannot be said about the important role Vitamin D plays in children’s health. As previously mentioned, spending time outdoors and being exposed to sunlight increases Vitamin D production. Having sufficient Vitamin D levels promotes a healthy immune system as Vitamin D supports the immune functions of the body (Park & Riley, 2015). Also, sunlight entering the eyes increases serotonin levels in the brain (Park & Riley, 2015). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that influences many functions in the body (Park & Riley, 2015). One way that serotonin influences immune function is through the strengthening of T-lymphocytes, cells which kill cancer cells (Park & Riley, 2015). While teachers and parents warn children not to get too dirty outdoors, research suggests that, like sunlight, exposure to soil bears a multitude of health benefits as well (Park & Riley, 2015). The bacterium Mycobacterium vaccae, a bacterium found in soil, has demonstrated benefit to patients with diseases such as cancer and dermatitis after they were infused with the bacterium according to one study (Park & Riley, 2015).
Similarly, interactions with the outdoor, natural environment increases exposure to macro- and microorganisms that inform proper immune system regulation, especially during childhood (Dadvand et al., 2017). Much research suggests that reduced exposure to nature through contact with plants, soil, and other living things in the Western populations may be linked to impaired brain development due to failure of these immuno-regulatory pathways (Dadvand et al., 2017). Getting dirty outside is really important right now considering all the (understandable) sanitizing that is going on due to the fact that we need exposure to microorganisms to help our immune system function appropriately.
Nature play promotes cognitive development, reduces ADHD symptoms
Probably the most substantial cognitive benefit of outdoor nature play is an increase in focused attention. I know myself, if I need to clear my head it always helps me to take a walk or just stroll through my yard and garden for a while. For me, it's like hitting reset. Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) rates are on the rise (Cooper, 2015). Approximately 11% of children in the US have been diagnosed with ADHD with a 5% increase per year from 2006 to 2011 (Cooper, 2015). Evidence suggests that children who spent time playing in a natural play environment as opposed to playing indoors or on an installed playground showed a reduction of ADHD symptoms and a greater capacity for attention (Park & Riley, 2015). Apparently, these effects on concentration and attention are sustained, even after children return indoors (Park & Riley, 2015). One study shows a reduction in ADHD symptoms and increase in concentration skills following a walk in the woods compared to a walk in a nearby town.
One reason for this may be that exposure to sunlight increases serotonin production, promoting focused attention and memory (Park & Riley, 2015). According to Richard Louv, the researcher responsible for the term “nature deficit disorder,” too much time spent indoors engaged in sedentary activities may increase the risk of ADHD and other problems with attention and memory (Park & Riley, 2015). I could go down a rabbit hole on the concept of ADHD as an adaptation to optimize survival. The only reason we regard it as a disorder is because, while it optimizes one for survival as an ever-vigilant hunter or pioneering explorer, it makes us ill-adapted to a sedentary life at a desk surrounded by 8000 things we are expected to regard as vitally important. Let's save that for another post.
The theory of attention restoration states that contact with nature is essential for brain development and may promote attentiveness. Humans have evolved to live in natural surroundings and attentiveness increased the odds of survival, thus this trait is still hardwired into humans (Dadvand et al, 2017). Some propose that this effect on cognitive development may be an indirect result of other factors such as increased physical activity, less air and noise pollution, and exposure to beneficial microorganisms. Higher levels of physical activity are associated with better cognitive function (Dadvand et al., 2017).
Nature play improves attention, memory, and persistence.
Just as exposure to nature affects attention and memory skills in children, persistence through difficult tasks is another skill that is imparted through interaction with the natural world. Being outdoors has been shown to reduce stress and mental fatigue making it easier to persevere through tasks that require sustained mental or physical effort (Cooper, 2015). Play in a green outdoor environment rich in diverse natural features motivates children to observe and explore, stimulating different types of play activities than a traditional playground or indoor environment (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013). During a study of children in a summer gardening camp in Finland, children showed increased motivation, initiative, diligence, and enthusiasm while working in the garden throughout the summer compared to negative behaviors and non-participation (Laaksoharju et al., 2012). They were also noted to demonstrate strong work ethic and patience in seeing the project through to harvest at the end of the season despite the amount of work and time it took (Laaksoharju et al., 2012).
Nature play increases creativity and inventiveness
Research clearly suggests that children prefer a natural green space for play and these types of spaces inspire inventiveness and imagination. Children who were given a choice of different types of play spaces intentionally chose sheltered spaces, rich in vegetation, featuring ample natural objects that could serve as building materials (Laaksoharju et al., 2012). When I was little I used to take river rocks from the landscaping at my grandparents house then go hang out under the canopy of the pine trees and pretend the rocks were bread or other foods. I would gather walnuts and pine cones from the trees in my yard and play with them for hours. I would put them into baskets and pretend to cook with them. I think this is a natural inclination for any child. In an indoor classroom environment, every object or toy has its specific purpose; but outdoors, natural objects can provoke more open-ended play as their purposes are not strictly defined and can be used any way a child imagines (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013).
Nature play reduces stress and depression and increases self-confidence
Nature offers a host of psychological benefits for children and adults (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013). Children who spend more time outdoors have opportunities to release stress through vigorous play (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013). Many children and adults recall fond memories of playing outdoors, fond memories of enjoyable activities seem to provide psychological protection against current and future life stress (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013). On the contrary, sedentary behaviors increase the risk of depression (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013). Additionally, serotonin, a neurotransmitter released upon exposure to sunlight, plays a role in promoting a state of calm and well-being while decreasing depression, violence, and suicidal tendencies (Jacobi-Vessels, 2013). Individuals who were exposed to more natural elements in a public housing area showed less aggression, violence, fear, and mental stress (Cooper, 2015). Children who play outdoors more often develop a greater sense of self-confidence and in turn are willing to take more risks during play (Cooper, 2015). Also, outdoor play in a natural environment improves self-esteem in children (Cooper, 2015). If adults in a child’s life encourage curiosity about nature and do not inhibit their exploration unnecessarily, children will begin to trust in their own thoughts and perceptions and initiate their own goals and objectives (Laaksoharju et al., 2012; Park & Riley, 2015).
Nature play promotes ecological awareness and empathy
Learning about nature and the roles all living things play can help foster a sense of belonging in children. Imparting the concept that we are all connected and every individual has value helps children see their place in nature and in the world (Park & Riley, 2015). Children who spend time engaged in direct contact with plants, animals, and other aspects of nature are more knowledgeable about the natural world and grow to value and respect all living things (Cooper, 2015). Being exposed to nature increased children’s affection and empathy towards other living things (Laaksoharju et al., 2012).
Let's get kids outside!
In conclusion, spending more time in nature is extremely beneficial to a child's development. Children’s physical, mental, an emotional health depend upon being regularly immersed in the natural world. Children develop stronger bodies and minds when they spend more time outdoors. They learn how to love and care for others and how to get along with other people in spite of differences. They develop empathy and learn about the natural world and its wonders. Children who get outside and explore are more creative and have fewer attention and memory problems. They are confident and inventive and take initiative toward their own goals and ambitions. Children who are encouraged with play in nature are happier with a reduced incidence of depression and aggression. They understand their place in the world and know that they are a part of something that unites us all.
If you are a caregiver of young children, I urge you to make scheduling time for unstructured outdoor play on a regular basis a priority. Healthy habits begin in early childhood and parents and teachers have a great deal of influence over what children see as valuable. Exposure to the natural world benefits all of us. Children who get this kind of exposure to the outdoors will grow up to become better stewards of the planet, making ethical decisions in their personal lives for the environment. Perhaps eventually these children will aspire to become adults who influence national or global policy, enacting protective legislature to preserve our natural resources and maintain the health of people and all living things worldwide. If we make outdoor play time a priority in our schools and communities, we may see a reversal in many of the physical, mental, and behavioral problems we see in children and adults today.
Stay in touch for Part 2 to this post where I will go over some fun and interactive ways to get more nature time even if you live in a city and have limited outdoor space. What are your favorite ways to interact with and "play" in nature?
References
Cooper, A. (2015). Nature and the Outdoor Learning Environment: The Forgotten Resource in Early Childhood Education. International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education, 3(1), p. 85-97. Retrieved from https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1108430
Dadvand, P., Tischer, C., Estarlich, M., Llop, S., Dalmau-Bueno, A., López-Vicente, M., … Sunyer, J. (2017). Lifelong residential exposure to green space and attention: a population-based prospective study. Environmental Health Perspectives, 125, 1–8. https://doi-org.proxy- calu.klnpa.org/10.1289/EHP694
Jacobi-Vessels, J. (2013). Discovering nature: the benefits of teaching outside the classroom. Dimensions of Early Childhood, 41,3, 1-10. Retrieved from: https://eds-b-ebscohost-com.proxy- calu.klnpa.org/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=8&sid=f168b7c7-0348-498f-b388- b9262e5e8597%40pdc-v-sessmgr01
Laaksoharju, T, Rappe, E, & Kaivola, T. (2012) Garden affordances for social learning, play and for building nature-child relationships. Urban Forestry & Urban Greenin, 11(2), 195-203. doi: 10.1016/j.ufug.2012.01.003
Park, M. & Riley, J. (2015). Play in Natural Outdoor Environments: A Healthy Choice. Dimensions of Early Childhood, 43(2), 22-28. Retrived from https://eds-a-ebscohost-com.proxy- calu.klnpa.org/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=33&sid=1388d939-fa6c-466b-956a- fb9ec83a4091%40sessionmgr4009
Torkar, G. & Rejc, A. (2017) Children’s Play and Physical Activity in Traditional and Forest (Natural) Playgrounds. International Journal of Educational Methodology, 3(1), 25-30. doi: 10.12973/ijem.3.1.25