Outdoor Play During Winter Is Good for Everyone
By Donna Stark
As the winter season comes bearing down on many of us, there may be some parents who decide to keep their children indoors. Their reasons for doing this may vary, but one of the most common is because they want to keep their children from being exposed to the season's harsh conditions. But just because winter has brought chillier weather doesn't mean children should be cooped up and primed for hibernation. Take a look at a few of the benefits outdoor play can bring.
Improves Immune System
Winter often gets a bad rap, especially when it comes to outdoor play. Sure, you certainly don't want to send your children outside in unsafe conditions, but if the weather is nice enough, outdoor exercise could be the best thing for them. Why is that? Well, playing outdoors will allow your children to escape from all the germs and bacteria that congregate in indoor spaces. Think about it. The circulation of germs occurs indoors, not outside! Just be sure to bundle them up though!
Encourages More Physical Activity
Are your children bouncing off the walls? Even with all the craft activities, video games, and books to keep them occupied, your children still have an innate desire to move, and to move a lot! The great outdoors provides an environment that offers plenty of space to run around and scream in. It's the perfect way to let loose, get the wiggles out, and maintain proper muscle development.
Fosters Imagination and Creativity
The winter season can also offer opportunities that the spring and summer cannot. For those with children who have large imaginations, the snowmen and forts are simply waiting to be built. Children need social interaction, and the snow gives the neighborhood kids a unique opportunity to come together. Winter fun can also give the parents an opportunity to be more involved with their children and a chance to relive their childhood. Who will be victorious during a snowball battle? The old-school parents or the hip, younger generation? Head outside to find out!
Outdoor Fun
With all that being said, there are still precautions you need to take to keep your family safe. Remember to layer up before you head outdoors. Your children's bodies will lose heat at a much faster rate than yours, so be sure they are covered with gloves, hats, and boots. And keep an eye on their behavior so you know when it's time to come in for that cup of hot chocolate.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sunset Hills, Mo.