Magnolia Ridge Child Development Center: 1300 Virginia Center Pkwy. Glen Allen, VA 23059 | Mon-Fri 6:30am-6:30pm |  (804) 515-1933
Country Day Care: 2312 Dickens Rd. Richmond, VA 23230 | Mon-Fri 6:30am-6:30pm |  (804) 282-8502

Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Children

Country Day Care in Richmond and Magnolia Ridge Child Care Center • February 25, 2024

In a world dominated by screens and schedules, the importance of outdoor play for children cannot be overstated. We explore the benefits that come with letting kids loose in the great outdoors below. At Country Day Care in Richmond and Magnolia Ridge Child Care Center in Glen Allen, VA, we encourage outdoor play to help promote healthy minds and bodies. If you need day care or after-school care for your child, reach out to us.


Encourages Creativity and Confidence

Children need to learn to take chances in an unstructured setting. It teaches kids how to socialize, manage their surroundings, and grow into confident individuals. They might learn how to cross the monkey bars or invite a new friend to play, which are activities that cannot be done indoors. When children are given time to play in nature, whether it is at a local park or in their own backyard, they have an unlimited number of opportunities to use their creativity. A stick and an imaginative child provide limitless fun.


Children Exhibit More Positive Behavior

Studies consistently show that children who spend ample time playing outdoors exhibit more positive behavior. The open-ended nature of outdoor environments allows kids to explore, take risks, and develop essential social skills. Exposure to natural settings has been linked to improved mood, reduced stress levels, and enhanced cognitive function. Whether it's imaginative play, team sports, or simply soaking up the sunshine, the positive impact of outdoor play on a child's behavior underscores the importance of integrating outdoor activities into their daily routines. 


It’s Good for the Body

According to a report by market research firm Childwise, children aged 5 to 16 spend approximately 6 and a half hours on screens per day. Surprisingly, nature can be more stimulating than video games. Being outside awakens the senses of sight, hearing, touch, and smell, and it can even alleviate cerebral weariness by allowing youngsters to naturally absorb their surroundings. When combined with physical activity, the mental and physical advantages skyrocket.


Day Care in Richmond and Glen Allen

If you’re considering enrolling your child in new day care or after-school care that encourages playing outside, get in touch with an honest and reliable child care service. For trusted day care in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA, contact the experts at Country Day Care and Magnolia Ridge Child Care Center.  To enroll your child at our Richmond day care center call Country Day Care at 804-282-8502 or for Glen Allen child care call 804-515-1933 to talk with our team at Magnolia Ridge. Contact us today with any questions!

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