The United Nations has established guidelines for prisoners, stating that those not engaged in outdoor work must receive at least one hour of suitable outdoor exercise daily, weather permitting. The U.S. Supreme Court has consistently ruled that denying outdoor exercise violates the Eighth Amendment, which protects against cruel and unusual punishment. Alarmingly, a 2016 study reported by The Guardian revealed that 75% of children in the UK spend less time outdoors than what is mandated for incarcerated individuals. Shockingly, 20% of these children don’t venture outside at all on a typical day.
The situation is dire, as a 2012 study involving nearly 9,000 children indicated that only half of them engage in outdoor activities with a parent at least once daily, with girls being more likely to stay indoors than boys. Furthermore, a 2016 survey of 12,000 parents from 10 different countries uncovered that around 50% of children have just an hour of outdoor exercise each day, while 33% get less than half an hour according to Fatherly. This study was part of the “Dirt is Good” campaign by Percil.
Richard Louv, in his book Last Child in the Woods, coined the term “Nature Deficit Disorder” to describe this troubling trend. He recounts a child expressing a preference for indoor activities because “that’s where all the electrical outlets are.”
The benefits of outdoor play, particularly in natural settings, are well-documented. The Child Mind Institute highlights that playing outdoors fosters confidence in children. According to Early Childhood News, outdoor play allows kids to explore the world at their own pace, promoting a sense of autonomy and essential decision-making skills. Additionally, it nurtures creativity and imagination — skills vital for success in today’s evolving economy. Angela Hanscom, founder of Timbernook, notes that outdoor experiences encourage children to think independently.
On a physical level, outdoor activities contribute to healthier bodies, as emphasized by the National Wildlife Federation. They help boost Vitamin D levels, which can prevent future health issues like heart disease and diabetes, while also improving vision. A philosopher mentioned in TIME suggested that girls’ reluctance to play outside could lead to lower exposure to beneficial microorganisms, which may explain the increased rate of autoimmune disorders among women.
Outdoor play is crucial for developing motor skills, such as running and jumping. Early Childhood News explains that children engage in various manipulative skills during outdoor play, including pushing swings and carrying objects. Hanscom further explains that outdoor environments challenge children’s balance and coordination through activities like climbing and running, helping them build strength and endurance.
Recognizing the importance of outdoor play, musician and actor Carter Lee has collaborated with the National Trust to encourage children to engage with their surroundings, stating that a simple stick can become anything in a child’s imagination — from a pen to a sword, or even a dragon’s bone. He believes that childhood should be about outdoor adventures and imaginative play.
So, what can we do to ensure our children receive ample outdoor time? First, we should advocate for recess and longer breaks during school hours. According to Scholastic, children who have recess exhibit less fidgeting, improved attention, and enhanced social skills.
We must encourage our children to immerse themselves in nature, whether it be through walks, stargazing, or trips to local parks where they can play freely without adult interference. As parents, we need to take the initiative to send them outside, away from screens, even if it means a bit of initial resistance. Soon enough, they will find joy in sticks and dirt.
Our children deserve more than fleeting moments outdoors; they require ample time to explore and breathe fresh air. This is not just for their peace of mind but also for their overall development and the future of the planet they will inherit.
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In summary, children today are spending less time outdoors than is acceptable, with many not even meeting the basic standards set for prisoners. The consequences of this trend are profound, impacting their physical health, creativity, and social skills. We must prioritize outdoor time in our children’s lives for their well-being and the future they will shape.