Outdoor learning and play are good for health

 Everyone wants to feel good, but how can we know which products and lifestyle choices are truly worthwhile? Do we need all (or any) of them? And are there simpler, proven ways to support health? Spoiler alert, there are.

 

We are constantly bombarded with online ads for healthy food, supplements, beauty products, exercise plans, and mental health services. Are you seeing similar things in your feeds and inboxes? While some of these products might be great and benefit people, it’s hard to ignore how much marketing is capitalising on our collective desire to be healthy and well.

 

It’s easy to get swept up in these clever campaigns, impulsively clicking “buy” or signing up for subscriptions that may never be used, but taking a moment to pause often reveals a tried and true method for supporting health: outdoor play and learning. It’s the perfect remedy for the body, mind, and soul, especially for children. Outdoor learning and play is healthy, particularly when nature is the backdrop. It works in an education setting, in family life and the workplace. 

 

 

Screen-Free Time

The impact of screen time, especially social media, on kids is undeniable. It’s rewiring our brains—and not for the better. The rise in anxiety, depression, loneliness, and self-esteem struggles tied to tech usage is staggering. It’s easy to stay inside where it’s warm and comfy and get drawn in. While screens aren’t going away, we need to rethink how we engage with them to improve our own and our children’s well-being.

 

Outdoor learning and play time provides kids with the opportunity to detox from their phones, connect in person, and discover who they are without the pressure of maintaining an online persona. It’s a win for both mental and physical health. Kids tell us how much they value the chance to step away from devices and reset on school residentials and during the school day. They’re actively seeking support in managing screen time addiction, and the outdoor classroom aka nature is the ideal environment for this.

 

Getting Active

Today’s children spend less time being physically active than previous generations. With busy school schedules, the draw of screens, and reduced independence due to (very real) concerns like traffic and safety, they simply aren’t moving as much as they should.

 

Physical activity is essential for both our mental and physical health, so what better place to get moving than in an outdoor learning and/or play environment? From organized activities to spontaneous moments of fun and even walking between learning stations, every day is filled with movement. It’s great for both the body and mind. Play time at school is a huge component too.

 

 

Nature for Mental Health

Simply seeing green and blue (seas, lakes and rivers) space first hand is beneficial for mental health, and spending consecutive days immersed in nature amplifies those benefits. Time in nature has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and even better social skills. Often, outdoor learning and play settings have a dose of nature nearby—trees, creeks, and sometimes even wildlife! It’s an experience that’s not only memorable but transformative. Every child deserves that, and once again, outdoor learning and play prove to be powerful tools for health.

 

 

Meaningful Connections

Outdoor learning and play is where children foster meaningful connections with others. In-person connections boost kids’ self-esteem and social skills in ways that the online world simply can’t replicate. Outdoor learning and play encourages healthy relationships and teaches communication, active listening, and empathy—skills that are essential for well-being. It doesn’t get much healthier than that!

 

 

The Bottom Line

In the end, outdoor learning and play experiences are almost always a healthy choice for kids (and staff). Whether it’s in-school provision, play dates on the weekend or family time spent out and about, active time spent outdoors supports well-being. Outdoor learning and play also brings joy and fun, which directly contributes to feeling good and healthy in itself. 

 

Outdoor learning and play is the perfect antidote to the chaos and pressure of modern life. So, before clicking “buy now” on another workout program or well-being app, consider what truly supports a lifelong healthy lifestyle. One tried and tested, guaranteed answer: outdoor learning and play. Take your class or family outside and see the magic for yourself!