20/06/2023
Let’s get outdoors and explore!
There is no better time to get outside and explore what this wonderful country has to offer us. The British summertime is a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors, long summer days and warm sunshine (and maybe a few showers – it is Great Britain after all!).
We all know how easy it is for children to chill out and watch tv, play video games and even being glued to their phones, and whilst a bit of downtime is important, excess screen time especially can have the opposite effect. Replacing some recreational screen time with outdoor play also helps reduce the risks of a sedentary lifestyle.
How outdoor play can benefit children?
Better Sleep
Physical activity and fresh air can help children sleep at night. We all that feeling, a long day at the beach jumping in the sea building sandcastles and racing down the dunes, kids out for the count in the car on the way home with sandy toes and salty hair.
Develop social skills
Freely exploring nature and inventing games, playing team games and discovering nature and outdoor creativity are wonderful ways children can engage with other children, make new friends and learn new social skills.
Exercise and physical activity
We all know how important being active is for both adults and children alike. Encouraging them to take risks with a greater sense of freedom, to run, jump and climb. There are so many different games and adventures to have outside.
Connecting with nature
Discovering nature and all its wonders and help to nurture their interest in the natural world. This includes teaching them about local wildlife and enlisting them to help preserve wildlife habits.
Cultivation of creativity
The freedom and open space provided by outdoor play stimulate children's imagination and creativity. They can invent games, create their own stories, use natural materials for artistic endeavours, and explore their surroundings in unique ways, fostering their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Mental health benefits
Outdoor play has a positive impact on children's mental health. Being in nature and engaging in physical activity outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, increase happiness, and promote a sense of well-being. It can also help children develop resilience, improve concentration, and enhance overall mental and emotional well-being.
Engaging in outdoor activities doesn't always have to involve vigorous physical exercise. Quieter activities like bug hunting, nature trails, painting, or having a picnic can be incredibly beneficial for children as well. Time spent outdoors allows children to relish the day’s bright light, the sunsets’ beauty, and the night sky’s stars.
Outdoor adventures at camp
At Barracudas there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor play, with a huge variety of different activities that children can chose from they won’t have time to get bored!
From Mini Olympics, Footgolf to Nature Trails and Treasure Hunts there is something for everyone to keep the kids active and enjoying that wonderful fresh air.