4 minWe've all been waiting for it: the first rays of spring sunshine! After the dark winter, we're ready for our new dose of sunlight. But to get it, we have to go outside! Read on for 5 fun ideas for outdoor activities with the family.
In this article, you will read
- Why is the outdoors so important?
- 5 fun ideas for outdoor activities with the family
Why is the outdoors so important?
Many people don't realise how much time they spend indoors, whether at school, work or home. Yet the outdoors is more important than you think!
Exposure to sunlight contributes to the production of vitamin D in our bodies. Vitamin D is essential for strong bonesand a healthy immune system. In addition, spending time outdoors helps prevent myopia, especially in children. Extensive screen use and little time outdoors increase the risk of myopia. Children who do go outside are at lower risk.
Children's motor development also improves through outdoor play. Children's motor fitness has declined significantly in recent decades, partly due to more time spent indoors and watching television. Children who are often outside are generally fitter.
In addition, being outside contributes to better sleep. Approximately 20-30% of toddlers and preschoolers have sleep problems, but research shows that children who spend a lot of time outside during the day sleep better and longer.
Outdoor air is also good for focus. Studies show that spending time in nature can improve concentration. Lack of focus? Go outside!
Finally, being outdoors is important for mental health. For many people, nature has a relaxing effect and can even help reduce anxiety and depression. What's more, vitamin D is used to treat winter depression.
5 fun ideas for outdoor activities with the family
1. A family boat trip: there are plenty of places in the United Kingdom where you can rent a canoe, kayak or boat. Relax completely and paddle together to a secluded spot for a picnic.
2. An adventurous bike ride: plan an adventurous bike ride for the whole family. And here's a tip: make sure your route includes an ice cream parlour as a stopover ;)
3. Walking through (and close to) nature: take a nice walk through a nature reserve with wild animals, or choose a route with a petting zoo. Young or old, animals are always fun!
4. An active day at the beach: find the nearest beach in the area and bring plenty of games! Frisbee, beach volleyball, building sandcastles, anything is possible!
5. A joint yoga session: looking for a “connecting” family activity? Try yoga with the family! Find a quiet spot and enjoy the fresh air while relaxing together.
In short, plenty of reasons to get outside with the family!
