According to research from Brown University Health, roughly 30% of children ages 8-10 have a cell phone, and that number skyrockets to 90+ by the time children are 14. As the world becomes more screen-oriented, keeping outdoor play at the center of childhood development is more important than ever.
Consequences of Excessive Screen Time
While there is an abundance of educational resources able to be accessed via technology when used appropriately, excessive screen time can profoundly impact a child’s early development. When screen time because a daily habit that takes up a solid chunk of children’s days, they lose valuable face-to-face communication skills, engage their creativity and imagination less, and can sometimes even delay language or physical development milestones.
Getting Back to Our Roots with Nature Play
Alternative to tablets, phones, and TV screens, nature play and being outside offers a metaphorical, and literal, breath of fresh air for children. Physically, outdoor play helps young children develop mobility and flexibility skills. When children are moving naturally, such as climbing jungle gyms, playing tag, or crouching to pick up rocks and stones along a trail, their body is building strength, density, and dexterity behind the scenes.
Additionally, rather than fixed forms of entertainment offered through screens, outdoor play encourages children to engage their creativity in unique ways. Something as simple as a nature walk can help peak a child’s curiosity, encourage them to use their imagination, or strengthen their problem-solving skills.
Outdoor play has also been connected with higher rates of social development and communication skills. Playing outside collaboratively with other children helps little ones learn social skills like turn-taking and sharing, while also encouraging relationship-building. These are difficult skills to learn in indoor environments engaged in screen activities!
Heaven’s Elect Christian Learning Center is deeply committed to helping children thrive in any and all environments. By offering copious amounts of outdoor space and playtime throughout the day, the team at Heaven’s Elect helps children in our care nurture their curiosity, expand their imaginations, and find their balance in an increasingly screen-filled world.