Let Your Kids Enjoy Time at the Park Year-Round
By Brandi Goodman
Park and Recreation Month in July encourages people everywhere to get outside and enjoy the many provided areas where you can play, walk, and explore outdoors. Though July -- and summer in general -- is a great time to visit a park, you should really let your kids enjoy time there all year-round. There are so many great benefits to playing at the park that both you and them can enjoy together.
A Boost in Vitamin D
Being outside playing at the park will give your kids a good boost of Vitamin D. We can't always get all the Vitamin D we need from the food we eat, so getting it from being outside is a great help. Just be sure you're loading up the sunscreen so the sun's harmful rays don't cause damage to your child's skin. Go around noon, when the body is said to be the most efficient at making Vitamin D and the sun is often shining the brightest. You don't need much time out at all to get the benefit.
Numerous Opportunities for Exercise
Children need exercise daily just as adults do. It's beneficial for maintaining weight, keeping the bones and joints strong, and being healthy overall. So many exercise opportunities exist at the park for your kiddos. Even in the winter, getting outside and climbing on the playground equipment, swinging, and running, can all burn calories and enhance strength and well-being.
Improving Mental Health
Being stuck indoors for days on end isn't good for anyone. Children need to get outside, socialize, and spend time playing or enjoying activities they like if you have to keep their mental health intact. Being outdoors playing and having fun with family or friends can be great for improving mental well-being. Get on the equipment and play with them. Swing with your child and see who can go higher. Play a game of catch. Chase each other through the open greenspace. It's an opportunity for bonding as well, which can also be great for a child's psyche.
Let your kids enjoy time at the park year-round. It's incredibly beneficial for them to get outdoors and play no matter the weather. Even when it's cold, your kids can have the fun and exercise they need outside at a local playground or recreational area. Just be sure to bundle them up well in the appropriate winter wear or keep water and sunscreen on hand during the warmest months of the year.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gold River, Calif.