Ah, outdoor play and its many memories of summer nights that lasted into the late hours. Is this something that children are still interested in? Is it something that they will enjoy more than watching another kid flick on Netflix? With the convenience and accessibility of smartphones, video games, and other electronics, it may seem like a simple solution to allow these devices to keep the children occupied during those long summer hours. However, when considering the drawbacks of reduced social interaction and physical activity, we can’t help but wonder if the convenience is really worth it…
The Danger of Sedentary Summers
The percentage of children and adolescents affected by obesity has more than tripled since the 1970’s (1). Data from 2015-2016 show that nearly 1 in 5 school age children and young people (6 to 19 years) in the United States suffers from obesity (wow!). So, what can we do? How do we get them up and active? We’ll get to that a little later.
Studies have shown that when kids are playing and being physically active, not only are they having fun, they’re also improving their imagination and physical well-being. They are learning movement control and developing gross motor skills that help to set a foundation for flexibility and balance that will carry into adulthood.
Take Back Summer with Outdoor Play!
Outdoor play can do wonders in developing and encouraging a young one’s imagination as well. Jumping and playing on swing sets can encourage children to invent new games and ways to interact with each other. But equally, some may think that playing alone can encourage children to become introspective. Quite the contrary, solitary play is key in helping children develop socially. It promotes a strong sense of independence, creativity and self-reliance.
Call Recreation Unlimited at (317) 773-3545 or visit of Noblesville showroom where you’ll discover the many products we offer that will encourage your little ones to get outside and reap all the benefits of outdoor play this summer! From Goalrilla basketball goals to Woodplay playsets and Springfree & Vuly trampolines, we’ll help you create a backyard the whole family will love.
References:
1. Hales CM, Carroll MD, Fryar CD, Ogden CL. Prevalence of obesity among adults and youth: United States, 2015–2016. NCHS Data Brief. 2017;288:1–8.