This is “Children’s Day in the Park”: go out, be active Health

SATURDAY, MAY 21, 2022 (HealthDay News) – It’s a good idea to take kids outside every day, but especially on Children to Parks DayNational Outdoor Games Day is May 21st.

“Even if the COVID-19 pandemic continues, outdoor time and nature research are safe for most children,” pediatrician Dr. Danet Glassy said in a press release from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

“And we know that the more time a child spends in nature, the better the chances that they will grow up to be good masters of our planet – an environmental victory!” on Mercer Island, Washington, said Dr.

You don’t need to travel far to find places where you can enjoy the outdoors. Check to see if there are parks near you. Other options include school grounds or even your own backyard.

“Take the opportunity to play in nature – near your home or in the neighborhood, or where it is convenient for you,” said Seattle pediatrician Dr. Puja Tandon. “Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather. It’s also good to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer during and after the adventure.”

More time outdoors for children is associated with improved motor development and below obesity rates and myopia risk, according to AAP. And safe sunlight also helps the body produce the vitamin D needed to stay healthy and strong.

Playing outdoors promotes curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in children, and research shows that children who spend more time outdoors learn better.

Another benefit is that children have less anger and aggression when they spend time in natural spaces, which can also improve their attention and reduce symptoms Attention deficit hyperactivity disordersays a group of pediatricians.

The sooner you introduce your child to nature, the more likely it is that he will develop a love of nature for life, according to AAP. Put them in a stroller or carrycot to wander among the trees, or put them on a blanket and let them enjoy the breeze, the birdsong, the texture of the plants and the smell of the forest.

With young children, set out to explore and talk to them about what’s around you to help them learn new words and engage all their senses.

But don’t think you need to go miles to benefit: you can read to your child outdoors or make sculptures of nature by sticking twigs, leaves, cones, stones and other items into the base for playing with the dough. Or just let your child play in the mud with old pots, pans, utensils and household appliances to develop feelings and motor skills.

If you have older children and teenagers, get attached to games and outdoor activities, experts say. Bring a soccer ball or frisbee and set up a picnic to enjoy with family or friends. It is a fun holiday for children and teenagers and is good for their physical and mental health.

More information

To learn more about the importance of spending family time outdoors, go to the page Children and nature network.

SOURCE: American Academy of Pediatrics, news release, May 11, 2022