What Does Outdoor Physical Activity Do for Children?
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Spring is in full swing and there’s no better time to take advantage of all the outdoors has to offer. But what does that mean for your child? Physical activity outdoors can establish lifelong healthy habits and allows children to be exposed to new environments where they can learn. Teaching your child the importance of outdoor activity at an early age also helps them reach their health goals more quickly and will continue to provide advantages for them now and well into the future!
Additional benefits of outdoor physical activity include:
- Builds physical strength
- Encourages creativity and imagination
- Increases natural Vitamin D levels
- Improves brain function
- Increases exercise for good heart health
- Improves mental health and well-being
- Boosts mood and energy levels
Ways to practice physical activity outdoors
Explore a local trail – Many children are fascinated by nature. They often enjoy learning about the change of seasons, weather and the many different animals and insects found in natural environments. One way to help them explore their surroundings outdoors is to find a trail or park close by! There are numerous physical activities that your child can enjoy on a trail such as bicycling, running, roller skating and so much more. Click here to find some of the most-loved trails in Plano, TX.
Walk outside – This outdoor activity is something the whole family can enjoy together! Being active outdoors is extremely impactful on your child’s mental and physical health, no matter their age or fitness level. Help your child increase their physical activity by getting them to take a walk around the neighborhood. Exercise time can also seem to pass by much faster when outside and can be easier to make a continuous habit.
Learn a new sport – For great health, physical activity is suggested every day for at least 30 minutes. You can make this task less of a chore and more exciting for your child by encouraging them to try something new. Outdoor sports are a great way to strengthen their heart, control their weight, keep blood pressure low and reduce the risk of serious diseases. Remember: sports don’t always have to be competitive, they can also be played just for fun!
Do you need guidance keeping your child’s health on track?
Physical activity outdoors is just one of the many ways to practice healthy habits in childhood. Routine well-child visits with a pediatric care provider every year, are essential to ensuring your child continuously reaches important growth and development milestones!
To schedule an appointment at Village Pediatrics, click here or reach out via text or phone to your preferred location below:
Village Pediatrics in Plano:
- Text (214) 473-2200
- Phone (214) 473-2200, Ext. 3
Village Pediatrics in Frisco:
- Text (972) 525-7381
- Phone (469) 872-9966
Regardless of the date published, no content on this website should ever be used as a replacement for direct medical advice from your primary care provider or another qualified clinician.