Get the kids out of the house and into nature! Children benefit from outdoor play–here’s the why, when, and where.

Want a cheap and easy way to improve your kids’ chances of health and success? Make sure they spend time playing outdoors! For parents who stick to Singapore’s air-conditioned indoor spaces, the idea of venturing outside with young children can be intimidating. But there are plenty of reasons to weave outdoor play into your children’s free time. The fresh air, change of scene, and space to explore will do them good—and you’ll probably enjoy it too!

Why Play Outdoors?
Outdoor settings inspire kids to move, explore, and imagine, just as they have for centuries. And research confirms that time spent outside is great for children’s health and well-being! The American Medical Association concluded that “Children will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier, when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play in the outdoors.” Why?

• Running, climbing, observing, and expressing themselves outdoors helps kids develop gross and fine motor skills. 

• Unstructured playtime improves kids’ cooperation, focus, and goal-setting; allows them to take risks and develop resilience; and encourages creativity and self-confidence.

• Children engage all their senses when exploring nature, as there’s always something new to see, hear, touch, and smell, and even taste! 

• Encouraging a love of nature when kids are young helps them develop lifelong healthy hobbies like hiking, gardening, bird-watching, mountain-biking, and photography. 

• Just a few minutes of daily “green exercise” has proven biological benefits, including muscle and heart health, production of vitamin D (benefiting immune systems, bones, and sleep), preventing myopia and obesity, and reducing levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol. 

• Nature enhances kids’ mental and spiritual well-being through inspiring curiosity and wonder, promoting calmness and happiness, and reducing hyperactivity. 

When Should We Play?
If your family doesn’t usually spend time outdoors, start small! Build a little time into each day to get out—visit a nearby park or playground, walk to the corner store, take a quick scooter or bike ride, or stroll through the neighborhood. The key is to make outdoor time routine, easy, and rewarding. Little by little you’ll find what works for you and your family. 

Where Should We Play?
Singapore has all sorts of kid-friendly outdoor options! If you’re at a playground or park, give the kids their space and while observing them discreetly. If activities like hiking need some spice, create a simple scavenger hunt or a goal of finding a certain number of animals or plants. And consider bringing the outdoors inside “nature nook” for outdoor collectibles or some potted plants to nurture.