Benefits of the Outdoors
Benefits of the Outdoors
Getting outdoors is a crucial part of childhood development
Studies have shown that spending just 20 minutes in nature can lower stress, improve focus, and boost well-being. Yet, so many of us struggle to overcome the barriers modern life has created to getting outside.
The increased use of technology, reduced access to green spaces, and worries about safety mean today’s generation of young people are spending more time inside than out!
British children today spend half the time their parents did playing outside, with around two hours of their time after school spent playing on tablets and smartphones instead. Spending too much time indoors can lead to negative health effects, such as vitamin deficiencies, short-sightedness and increased allergy risks.
Fast facts
- Research shows that experience of the outdoors can help develop a positive self-image and enhanced social skills.
- A UK survey found that 60% of primary aged children get less than one hour of play per day.
- 97% of teachers surveyed worldwide believe that outdoor playtime throughout the school day is critical for children to reach their full potential.
- Spending time outdoors has been proven to have positive impacts on cognitive, social, physical, and behavioural development.
- The cost of physical inactivity to the economy in England is calculated to be £8.2 billion per year.
Thriving outdoors
Getting outside is an action that all of us can take, whether it’s at school, home, or with your local community. You have the power to make small changes in your day-to-day life that can have huge impacts. Not many people may know just how powerful spending time outside is–increasing your outlook on life, concentration in the classroom, and general feelings of health and well-being.
Help raise awareness about the benefits nature can bring and take action with WE Thrive Outdoors.
