Outdoors 'great for kids'
Outdoor activities make children more aware of the world, it has been claimed
As summer draws in, it is inevitable that families will be spending more and more time enjoying the great outdoors in the sunshine. According to a US expert, this is especially great news for youngsters.
Rhonda Christensen, a director at Iowa State University Extension, states that spending time enjoying fresh air and nature is ideal for children as it helps them to develop a range of skills.
Authorities across the globe have urged parents to ensure their youngsters get a certain level of physical activity daily, with the UK government even getting in on the act with its Change4Life campaign.
However, the expert claims the benefits of time outdoors extend beyond mere fitness.
"Kids need unstructured time to explore nature at their own pace. While they're at it, they'll develop their observation skills and reduce their stress levels," she explained in an interview with the Storm Lake Pilot Tribune.
Ms Christensen added that opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors also give children more awareness of their surroundings and influence their thoughts on the world.
She said: "As children discover the role that the environment plays in our lives and the resources it provides, they are more likely to be good caretakers of the natural world."
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Comments
Completely agree - fun in the sun is what it's all about