RESEARCH ON THE IMPORTANCE OF OUTDOOR PLAY

One of the leaders in this field is Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods:  Savings Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder. Many factors are gradually limiting the amount of time children spend outside, including technology and parental fear.

• Researchers have discovered that children as young as 5 showed a significant reduction in the symptoms of attention-deficit disorder when they engaged with nature.
• Children with disabilities gained enhanced body image and positive behavior changes through direct interaction with nature.
• The prevalence of being overweight for height has more than doubled in the past 30 years for children aged 2-5 years.  Concerns about being overweight extend beyond just the immediate issues.  Weights problems may inhibit both emotional and social well-being, as well as contribute to long-term health risks.  Being overweight can affect infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in the following ways:  impaired immune system, impaired cognitive development, sleep apnea, delayed dental development, and inadequate social/emotional development.

Much more information about the importance of outdoor play and connecting with nature is available.