Getting outdoors can be challenging, depending on where you live, the weather, time constraints, and you, and your child’s, personal preferences. But there are so many benefits to outdoor play!
Try these tips to help you be more intentional about encouraging more play time outside.
Seek out natural areas – Visit parks, nature trails, or wooded areas where kids can explore freely.
Allow risk-taking – Encourage safe but challenging activities like climbing and balancing. If you're able, use words like "how does your body feel" or "do you have a plan" instead of "be careful" to help your child problem solve and navigate through the experience.
Incorporate natural elements at home – Create a backyard play space with logs, rocks, and open-ended materials.
Model outdoor play – Join in on the fun! Show kids that exploring nature is exciting and valuable.
Nature is the ultimate playground, offering endless opportunities for movement, growth, and adventure. By encouraging outdoor play in natural environments, we give children the tools they need to develop strong, confident bodies while fostering a lifelong love of movement and exploration. So next time you’re outside, let the kids climb, jump, balance, and explore. You’re not just letting them play - you’re helping them grow.
And, as always, let us know if you feel your child would benefit from one-on-one, individualized physical therapy intervention.
