Let's Play

Ready to have some fun with your family? Whether it’s blowing bubbles at the park, climbing around on the playground, or just going on a walk, there are SO many benefits to getting outside and playing as a family!
Read on to learn more.

Play

Play is for children!

Playing outside can have a significant impact on a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development.

COGNITIVE AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT BENEFITS

  • Being outside gives children many opportunities to use their imagination, which helps in developing problem-solving skills and creative thinking.
     
  • Playing outdoors exposes children to different colors and noises, expanding their senses. Nature is full of different sights and sounds!
     
  • Studies show that children who spend more time outside are likely to be happier and more relaxed, and better deal with stress.

Young mother and daughter sitting on porch

PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Giving children the opportunity to move freely, play, exercise, and explore in an outdoor environment is important for their overall physical development.
     
  • Being outside helps their bodies absorb vitamin D from the sun, which helps to build stronger bones and strengthen their immune system. But don’t forget the sunscreen, which keeps your child protected from the sun while playing outside.
     
  • Studies also show that children burn more energy outdoors, helping them get out their wiggles, which can lead to better sleep.

PARENT-CHILD BONDING

  • Playing outside with your children can create positive memories and strengthen the bond between a parent and child. These shared experiences can be fun and playful, creating memories of happiness for years to come.

Play is for parents, too!

As a parent, getting outside and playing with your child can also have a positive impact on your mental health and overall well-being.

MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Spending time outside is an easy way to help boost your mental health. It has been shown that spending time outside can reduce stress and improve overall mood.
     
  • Spending time outdoors can help parents feel more centered and balanced. This can lead to greater resilience, allowing parents to feel less stressed and better able to handle challenges they may be experiencing which can boost confidence and well-being over time.
     
  • Addressing your mental health can also help to address substance use issues. Incorporating play into your routine, along with other resources and support, can help build healthy habits.

PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Play can increase endorphins, the hormones that help reduce pain, boost mood, and reduce stress levels, and in turn, can make parents feel better and more energized. By engaging in physical activity with your children, you can improve your overall well-being.
     
  • Physical activity through play can lower blood pressure and help contribute to weight management, diabetes prevention, and decrease the risk of other chronic illnesses.

While play can help with your overall well-being, all parents could use a little extra support from time to time! Visit our Parent Support page to find other helpful resources to for you and your family.

Play Tips

  • Mix it up! Mix in a variety of activities so your child has plenty of opportunities to explore, learn, and have fun!
  • Make it easy! Consider activities like hide-and-seek or tag to keep you and your child busy outside.
  • Keep it safe! Ensure that outdoor play areas are free from hazards and have suitable surfaces to avoid injuries.
  • Plan ahead! Schedule enough uninterrupted time for outdoor activities and plan your activities carefully to keep things engaging and fun.
  • Mix it up! Mix in a variety of activities so your child has plenty of opportunities to explore, learn, and have fun!
  • Get creative! Find different ways to bring creativity outside like making homemade bubbles or creating a dance together to your favorite song to move to outside.

icon flying kite

Ready for some ideas
to get out and play?

Download our:

  • Play Scavenger Hunt ENG | SPAN
  • Favorite Place to Play – Drawing Page ENG | SPAN
  • Cloud Shapes – Drawing Page ENG | SPAN
  • Play Tip Sheet ENG | SPAN

icon drawing on chalkboard

Want more
developmental tips
and activities?

Visit our Tips and
Resources page!

icon horseback ride

Find more information
and resources for you
and your family below!

Parent Support
Family Health
Child Development
Support for Dads