I’ve heard all the common refrains:
- “Kids are cooped up inside too often.”
- “Today’s children don’t get enough outdoor time.”
- “Too much screen time, not enough fresh air.”
- “When I was a kid, we were just told to go outside until dinner.”
I completely understand. My children would likely thrive and be in better spirits if I could simply say, “Go play outside!” and let them bask in the sun and frolic in the dirt until the streetlights flickered on.
However, the reality is more complicated. I wish I could send my kids out to play while I focus on work, chores, and catching up on the news. They would jump at the chance, probably even more than I would. The trouble is, we live in an apartment without a yard. There’s a small patch of grass behind our building, but it’s unfenced, meaning I must supervise them closely to prevent them from wandering into the parking lot or worse—being taken or having the authorities called on us for letting them roam unsupervised.
Also, let’s be honest: 9 square feet of grass isn’t going to keep my little ones entertained for long.
You might argue that as they grow older—almost 4 and 5 now—I could just send them off with a backpack filled with juice boxes and sandwiches to explore the neighborhood. Perhaps this is an option for us since we live in a relatively safe area. But what about families in less secure neighborhoods? What about parents who work late and don’t return home until after dark? There are countless factors to consider.
As parents, we strive to provide our kids with experiences and independence to help them evolve into well-rounded adults. Undeniably, outdoor play and freedom are vital for their growth and well-being. However, our primary responsibility is ensuring their safety, and for many of us, sending them out into the unknown doesn’t inspire confidence that we’re fulfilling that duty.
Trust me, I don’t want to be overprotective. I want my children to enjoy the outdoors and feel the grass under their feet while they play freely. I yearn for kids who cherish their time outside and give me a moment’s peace to get things done. Unfortunately, this isn’t my reality right now, nor is it for many others. We can’t just tell our kids to “go outside” until dinner, even though we deeply desire that for ourselves and for them.
So before you start lecturing about how children need to be outdoors more and how parents are overly cautious nowadays, please consider the circumstances many of us face. Instead of adding to our guilt, offer your support and encouragement. At the end of the day, we’re doing the best we can, and a little affirmation goes a long way.
If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination options, check out this excellent resource or explore our insightful post on at-home kits. For those considering a stroller for family outings, this authority on the topic discusses their experience with a popular choice here.
In summary, while the idea of simply sending kids outside sounds appealing, the reality is that many families face challenges that complicate this notion. We must recognize these circumstances and support one another in our parenting journeys.