One of the main difference we notice with the children in this generation is the amount of time they spend indoors. Between the time spent sitting at school, doing homework, attending extra-curricular classes and scheduled screen time, there is no time left for the children to spend outdoors. Infact, even we as adults hardly spend any time outside preferring indoor spaces for recreation or even exercise.
A few reasons why parents prefer scheduling their kids to various classes rather than free play outside - unsafe neighbourhoods, focus on learning outcomes, lack of outdoor places availability, fear of germs.
But there are important benefits that our children are missing out on-
1. Fresh Air & Sunshine - Sunshine helps to regulate our body clock which results in better sleep cycles. Vitamin D is especially important for the bones and immunity of growing children. Being in bright sunlight also reduces nearsightedness. This study https://www.parentingscience.com/kids-need-daylight.html even shows sunlight exposure might be linked with better learning.
2. Sensory Learning- Children are learning through all their senses and Nature Play provides one of the best sensory experience. When children are digging in the mud they are not only touching it with their hands but smelling the dirt while listening to the different sounds of nature.
3. Physical Exercise- As per the guidelines https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/physical-activity-guidelines-children-under-five-years/ children need at least 60 mins of moderate physical activity Everyday. It not only developed their muscles and bones but also reduces the risk of developing obesity, hear diseases, type 2 diabetes.
4. Risky Play- when left to their own devices, children naturally tend to take risks and push their limits. It helps them to become aware of their own bodies and capabilities. They also develop the ability to access risks and face consequences of their actions.
5. Link to Nature- only if children are allowed to be in contact with nature will they develop a personal relationship and appreciation for the environment. In his book ‘Last child in the woods’ author Richard Louv coined the term ‘Nature Deficit disorder’ to describe the cost of alienation from Nature. You can read more about it here-https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_protect_kids_from_nature_deficit_disorder
Apart from free play and exploration here are a few activities you can do with your child-
- Nature Hunt
- Observe changes in the Seasons
- Listen to the sounds of nature
- Nature Art or painting with Nature objects
- Trekking
As more and more parents are starting to realise the importance of outdoor nature play there are many movements to encourage us. #1000hoursoutside (https://1000hoursoutside.com/index.html/ ) movement aims for children to spend 1000 hours outside in a year. @LYPMumbai (https://m.facebook.com/lypmumbai/) is a Community organisation to make public open spaces accessible to everyone in Mumbai. They have organised various free workshops, events and classes in Parks across the city.
Listing a few Open areas in Mumbai where you can take your children-
- Mahim Nature Park
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park
- Hiranandani Gardens, Powai
- Bhakti Park Garden, Wadala
Do email us on savimontessori@gmail.com and let us know if you know any great outdoor play activities.