The Importance of Outdoor Play in Children Birth-3

Written by: Stacey Patterson, Early Intervention Service Coordinator

Summer is in full swing and so are young children! We all know that summer play is fun, but it is also an important developmental tool.

Outdoor play not only encourages more vigorous play, such as running and jumping, which helps build gross motor skills, it also helps with the mental health of our youngest children. Regular exposure to the great outdoor can help reduce anger and aggression, even in young children. Playing outside also encourages curiosity, exploration and problem solving!
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No child is too young to enjoy being outside. Even infants benefit from fresh air each day. Try doing tummy time on a blanket in a shady spot. In addition to being an important gross motor activity, it can also be a great sensory experience! 

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CDC Outdoor Play Recommendations:

• Children from 12-36 months should get at least 60 minutes of outside time each day.
• Birth -6 months-no sunscreen. Be sure to keep infants out of the direct sun.
• 6 months and up-apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, then every 2 hours after that.
• Be sure to dress your child in loose, light weight clothing.​
• Provide children with plenty of water but avoid drinks that are very cold or have too much sugar.

For more information on outdoor play, check out these additional resources:

​https://www.cdc.gov/earlycare/resources/outdoor-play-and-safety.html

https://healthychildren.org/English/family-life/power-of-play/Pages/playing-outside-why-its-important-for-kids.aspx

https://www.parentingexperttomom.com/the-best-outdoor-activities-for-babies/

Early Intervention Play in the Park Slideshow