Why do We Need to Allow Children to Play Outside?

Allowing children to play outdoors is something that may be difficult for some parents to do due to excessive worry or not having enough time to accompany their children. However, playing outdoors is not as bad as we imagine, in the past before the world evenly recognized various technologies such as gadgets and computers, children from early childhood to teenagers would be busier playing outdoors.  

But not today, where children will be more comfortable sitting all day at home while watching their favorite shows. This results in a lack of physical or non-physical activity with the surrounding environment directly which can lead to several physical and psychological health problems such as emotional disturbances, fatigue, minus eyes, and obesity. For this reason, as parents we should encourage and give them time to play outdoors, of course with proper supervision. Here are some reasons why we should encourage children to play outdoors.

1. Reduce the use of gadgets or computers

Playing outdoors can provide a distraction for children on gadgets, so the bad effects of sitting too long and staring at gadgets or computers can be reduced or even prevented by this. In addition, children will gain health and fitness because outdoor activities often use muscles, balance, and flexibility as well as exposure to vitamin D from the sun which is beneficial for the body.    

2. Introduces children to nature and other creations of God. 

In addition to reducing their interaction with gadgets, playing outdoors will help children stimulate with nature. We can introduce children to plants, animals and other God's creations such as soil, water, sand, rocks etc. around the environment or in certain places. This aims to train sensory as well as show the greatness of God who has created various forms of different components of the earth and its contents.

3. Managing children's stress and emotions

Breathing fresh air outdoors can help relax children's bodies, allowing them to deal with the stress or pressure that may come from school or gadgets. In addition, children will learn to develop their social skills such as communicating with peers directly, working together, and managing emotions.

4. Builds creativity and imagination

When children are allowed to play outdoors, they will be more free to explore various things such as certain objects that can increase creativity and problem solving skills in their own way.