Reports from the industrialised West suggest that many children are spending between 30-50 hours a week getting their stimulation indoors. From TV in cars to computer games, from the Wii to the iPad. Young people are experiencing a transformed world where electronic and digital stimulation have replaced outdoor activity. However, childcare development specialists are suggesting that overly structured activities might be adding to problems. Such as childhood obesity, reduced muscle development and less robust ways to solve problems and hone creative thinking.
Creating outdoor play opportunities
It’s easy in summer to give children plenty of opportunities to play outside. From trips to the park and beach through to summer festivals and camping, most families find their outdoor hours really ramp up in summer. But while the evidence is clear that outdoor play helps children. It can be difficult to make this a year round activity. So we consulted some of our most experienced nanny candidates to ask them how they create outdoor play opportunities.
Schedule organised events
Our nannies tell us that family days are a great way to help children become confident outdoors. Organisations such as the Wildlife Trust structure events that give children a wide range of outdoor experiences from building dens to bug safaris. Slightly older children may benefit from being able to take a close friend on a foraging day. Again there are good educational charities who immerse children in the natural environment in a healthy, rewarding fashion.
Go traditional
From hopscotch to skipping games. Reviving the outdoor play of previous generations can fascinate your children. On nanny play dates we have found that a little planning allows children to try out a range of outdoor fun and where each nanny knows different traditional games. Often from different countries. Children are given a chance to explore different cultures as well take part in a range of activities.
Help the uncertain child
One experienced nanny told us how valuable a Cabana or pup tent can be for a child who lacks confidence outdoors. Simply setting up a small ‘safe space’ with some familiar toys inside. This can allow a nervous child to adjust to being outdoors because they can escape to an enclosed and manageable environment when they become overwhelmed.
Find community support
Liverpool is leading the way in helping communities spend more time outdoors. A recommendation to waive the cost of staging street parties is currently being considered. If it passes it will allow street parties and community events for free. The idea is to give children the chance to play safely in traffic free areas without having to be driven to parks or playgrounds and to encourage a better blending of age groups. By allowing a local community to spend time together without safety concerns.
So work with your nanny to extend the summer’s happy outdoor fun throughout the year and your children will definitely benefit.