Child Care Chatter: 10 Reasons Kids Need Fresh Air

10 Reasons Kids Need Fresh Air

1. Stronger bones and lower cancer risk: Today's "indoor kids" don't get enough sun and are becoming Vitamin D deficient, causing health risks.
2. Trimmer and more healthy children: An hour of play a day is what doctors say is a basic tool in the effort to ward off childhood obesity and diabetes.
3. Improved eyesight: Recent studies find that children who get outdoor time have less nearsightedness and need for eye glasses.
4. Less depression and hyperactivity: Outdoor time in natural settings (even tree-lined streets) soothes kids and lowers their need for medications.
5. Longer attention spans:Children who stare at TV and video games all day have less patience and shorter attention spans.
6. Better at making friends: Children playing together outdoors relate directly with one another, create games together, choose sides and improve their "people" skills.
7. More creative: Outdoor kids are more likely to use their own imaginations, inventions and creativity while playing.
8. Less "acting out" at home and school: Getting children away from TV violence and video games helps them see that violent behavior does not always solve problems.
9. Measurably better grades in school: The healthy bodies and minds that come with outdoor play are better able to do well in school.
10. A longer lifespan and healthier adult life: Doctors estimate that sedentary and obese children lose three to five years from their life expectancy.

A child who spends time outdoors breathes healthier air (than indoors), learns to see the wonders of nature, climbs tress, has more fun and learns a deeper respect for wildlife and natural surroundings.

(Adapted from: "Parents: 10 Reasons kids need fresh air" by Kevin Coyle www.nwf.org)

So what are you waiting for? Grab your shoes, hats, and sunscreen and head outside - it will do you AND the children good!



Child Care Chatter: 10 Reasons Kids Need Fresh Air: Our accreditation standard 1.6 states: " Children [should] have scheduled daily opportunities for outdoor play in a safe, stimulating and de...