Have Your Children Forgotten How to Play Outdoors?
Do you notice a change in the volume of time your sons or daughters are involved in outdoor play in comparison to the days you were a kid? For many people the answer is yes, mainly because of the advancement of all things electronic that require a power point to connect into. But it really doesn’t need to be like this. But if your child is a couch potato then below are a few tips for getting them away from the tv and outside again.
It is a great idea to make outdoor play time a normal part of your kid’s daily routine. Have them play outside for a minimum 30 minutes as soon as they get home from school. Inform them that the Play Station and Xbox is going to be available to them only after they have had their outdoor play time. As long as you are consistent and disciplined with this rule your children will adjust quickly.
Of course outdoor play alone is not much fun. If your child doesn’t have brothers and sisters then encourage playmates to come over. But don’t forget that Moms and Dads make great play partners too. Think of it as part of your regular fitness regime. Not only are you going to benefit healthwise, additionally, you will be making time to communicate with and be with your child on a regular basis. Teach them how to play a few of the games that you grew up playing. Believe me when I say your child will love you for it.
Having equipment to play with in the backyard will help encourage children outdoors but doesn’t need to be costly either. For pre-schoolers a sandpit will keep them occupied for hours. Older children enjoy ball games, bikes, jump rope and hopscotch. If you have the area, a trampoline, swing sets for kids, backyard soccer goals or a basketball hoop are fantastic entertainers. Additionally, there are games like hide-and-seek that need no equipment, only imagination.
Everybody knows that outdoor play is crucial for a child’s development both emotionally and physically but it won’t happen unless we are willing to make some changes. Let’s make it a priority to get our kids experiencing the fresh air again so we will all reap the rewards.