T.....Y...... you feel outdoor play is Important.

Disclaimer if this too long for you to read watch it in video format. @

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hmhz7xult48&t=4s

Today, we will explore how spending time outside can lead to greater social activity, more friendships, and the sharing of information. 

Outdoor play provides children with more room to run, play, and socialize. With larger open spaces, children have the opportunity to engage in physical activity and play games that may not be possible in smaller indoor spaces. This allows for greater social interaction and the development of important social skills. Let’s take a look at 5 ways in which outdoor play provides room for social activity.

Outdoor play offers children a much larger and diverse play area than indoor play. With more room to run and play, kids can engage in physical activities that they may not be able to do indoors. 

Outdoor play provides opportunities for children to play in groups and build social skills. This helps children learn to work together, share, and develop their communication skills.  Spending time outdoors, especially in the sun, allows children to get fresh air and vitamin D. This can help boost their overall health and well-being. 

Outdoor play is often more physically demanding than indoor play, which encourages children to be more active. This helps them develop their gross motor skills, coordination, and balance. 

Spending time in nature and engaging in physical activity can have a positive impact on children's mental health. Outdoor play can help reduce stress and improve their mood, leading to a happier and healthier life.

Playing outside allows children to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships. By participating in games and activities together, children learn how to work together, communicate effectively, and build trust. These skills are important for the development of strong, lasting relationships and help to lay the foundation for healthy social connections throughout life. The following are five ways in which outdoor play promotes friendship. 

Outdoor play provides opportunities for social interaction and the development of social skills. Children can engage in cooperative play, learn to share and take turns, practice communication and negotiation skills, and develop relationships with their peers. These experiences help children build emotional intelligence and lay the foundation for positive relationships throughout their lives.

Teamwork is a key benefit of outdoor play as it fosters cooperation, communication and problem-solving skills among children. Children learn to work together to accomplish tasks and achieve common goals, building trust and cooperation, which are valuable life skills. Outdoor play also encourages children to be creative and inventive, helping to develop leadership, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills, all of which are essential in a team environment. In summary, outdoor play promotes teamwork and prepares children for future success.

Outdoor play provides a natural and inclusive environment for children to interact, communicate and cooperate with each other, leading to the development of social skills and the formation of new friendships. It allows children to engage in physical activities and games, build teamwork and problem-solving skills, and experience the joy of playing and discovering together.

Outdoor play provides opportunities for inclusive play as it creates a level playing field where children of different abilities and backgrounds can come together and engage in physical activities. The natural environment offers a variety of challenges and stimuli that can be adapted to meet the needs of all children. This creates a more inclusive environment where children can develop social skills, improve physical literacy, and build self-esteem through shared experiences. By providing children with opportunities for outdoor play, we can foster a more inclusive and diverse play community.

Outdoor play promotes healthy competition by allowing children to participate in physical activities that challenge their skills, while also fostering teamwork and sportsmanship. This encourages children to strive for their best and push their limits, while learning to appreciate and support one another's successes.

Outdoor play provides a platform for children to share information and ideas. When playing together, children often have opportunities to learn from one another, exchange information, and explore new interests and ideas. This not only promotes intellectual development, but also helps to foster a sense of community and belonging. 

Children who play outside together learn to communicate effectively with each other. Children are exposed to new words and concepts through outdoor play, which can expand their vocabulary and language skills. Children must compromise and negotiate with each other during outdoor play, helping them to develop important social skills. 

Outdoor play provides children with opportunities to interact with children from different cultural backgrounds, which can enhance their cultural awareness and understanding. 

In conclusion, outdoor play is a crucial aspect of childhood development. It provides children with the opportunity to develop physical and social skills, make friends, and share information and ideas. By encouraging outdoor play, we can help our children to grow into well-rounded individuals with strong social connections and a love for learning.