Summer Outside
When you picture your favorite Summer memories in New England, what do you see? Perhaps you are imagining a crystal-clear ocean crashing against a pristine seashore, or jumping into a placid lake with friends. Maybe you are thinking of hikes through forested trails lined with green trees and flowers.
You probably did not picture a video game flashing across a screen, or the fluorescent lighting of an indoor space you were hopelessly bored in.
Summer was meant to be outside, and not just for the memories. Spending Summer in nature could have benefits on your child’s development. Outdoor exploration is an opportunity for children to explore, play and create. The open space encourages physical activity, where children have more freedom to run, jump, and climb than they do inside.
Outdoor exploration is also a learning opportunity for children. In nature, children can examine living creatures like bugs, animals, and plants. This gives them an opportunity to connect with and understand their environment. Under the supervision of a teacher or other adult, children can ask questions about what they find and learn how people rely on different aspects of their natural environment.
There is no better way to engage with social-emotional learning than in the outdoors. Being outside can serve as a platform for structured and unstructured play, allowing kids to challenge themselves socially and develop stronger bonds with their peers. It is a chance for children to develop skills in communication and teamwork.
Interacting with nature promotes the mental health of adults and children alike. Being outside can reduce stress by lowering your heart rate and cortisol levels*. The dirt, dust, and pollen outside can actually strengthen your immune system, as exposure increases your ability to fight ailments related to these particles later on.
When your child thinks back on Summer, give them something to remember. The social and physical benefits of spending time in nature are invaluable and cannot be mimicked in indoor spaces. Let’s get children back to spending Summer how it should be-outside!
PUDDLESTOMPERS offers nature-based Summer camps for children ages 4-8 at four locations across greater Boston including Needham, Newton, South Newton, and Wellesley. Give your child a Summer they will not only remember, but learn and grow from. Click below to learn more about our program offerings and register for one or more weeks of camp today!
* Sourced from the Child Mind Institute. Read more at https://childmind.org/article/why-kids-need-to-spend-time-in-nature/