Why outdoor play is good for your child’s mental health

When children spend time in green space it has a positive impact on their mental health and wellbeing.

Vitamin D and Serotonin Natural sunlight allows children’s bodies to produce Vitamin D, which in turn releases the chemical serotonin in the brain. Seratonin helps to regulate emotion and mood. Because Vitamin D isn’t in many of our foods, the more time spent outdoors minimises the risk of Vitamin D deficiency.

Research with older children shows that those with higher levels of serotonin experience more positive emotions with their family members in comparison those with lower serotonin who have a greater likelihood of responding to negative emotions with self-destructive behaviour.

Children are often regularly exposed to stressful environments.

Stress reducing Being allowed to play outdoors can help to bring stress and anxiety levels down by reducing levels of the hormone cortisol in the brain.

Happier children Engaging with nature and experiencing the outdoors first hand, boosts cognitive development and promotes healthier, happier minds.

Good for body too! Being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature also reduces anger and fear. It reduces blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension.

Research done in hospitals, offices, and schools has found that even a simple plant in a room can have a significant impact on stress and anxiety.

Increase well-being Being outdoors also contributes to higher levels of well-being, characterised by self-confidence that comes from children having the freedom, time and space to learn, grow and demonstrate independence.

Nature soothes and helps us cope with pain. Because we are genetically programmed to find trees, plants, water, and other nature elements engrossing, we are absorbed by nature scenes and distracted from our pain and discomfort.

Give us a call on 01577 840 570 if you’d like to speak to one of our sales team about getting children outside to learn, enjoy nature and play.

Source: www.goodplayguide.com/ Learningoutsidetheclassroomblog / www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/how-does-nature-impact-our-wellbeing /