Children use more technology in their daily lives.They spend less time outdoors.These things can be bad for your child.Getting your kids to play outdoors will help them stay physically healthy and increase their attention, creativity, and problem-solving skills.Kids do better in school when they play outside.The rewards are worth it if you encourage outdoor play.
Step 1: Turn off technology.
Children between the ages of 8 and 18 spend an average of 7.5 hours a day using electronics and media.Kids and teens should not use media for more than one or two hours per day, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.It is possible to limit tech consumption by establishing a curfew for media devices.Setting up scheduled times when your children are allowed to use media and technology will help establish boundaries for proper use.Before your child goes outside, have a small box or shelf for them to put their cell phone in.It will make it easier for you to make sure they are getting the time they need outdoors, because they will be more aware about where and when they use it.
Step 2: Good tech consumption model.
If you want to create a "screen-free" zone at home, you don't have to throw all your tech away, but you should turn off the TV at night and make sure your children's bedrooms are free of computers, TVs, or video.Children will be more likely to take advantage of the other options if they know there are other alternatives.
Step 3: Kid-friendly outdoor space can be created or found.
If you have a backyard, you might want to make it more fun for your kids to play in.Keep the yard mowed and clear the brush.Swing-set and sandboxes provide hours of fun.You still have options if you live in an urban area or don't have a yard.Make it a habit to take your kids to the park.People in your community can give you recommendations on the Internet.The playground finders are online.
Step 4: You should get to know your neighbors.
Adults who feel a sense of community with their neighbors are likely to spend more time outdoors for recreation and exercise, and this carries over to their children as well.Parents who know their neighbors are more likely to let their children play outside.If you don't have a suitable play area for your kids at home, getting to know your neighborhood can be helpful.Allowing your kids to play at their friends' houses promotes social skills development, helps them learn teamwork, and relieves stress, in addition to the health benefits of outdoor play.
Step 5: Good outdoor behavior can be modeled.
If your family is new to spending time outdoors, it will help your children to know that your parents are involved.Spending time outdoors isn't only healthy, it's fun, and you can help your kids understand that with family-friendly activities.Encourage your kids and yourself if you live in a safe neighborhood.To get exercise, walk to the library or school.
Step 6: Ground rules should be established.
One hour a day is recommended by the National Wildlife Federation for your children to play outside.Your children's daily schedule should include this time.It may not be easy at first, but creating an expectation that your kids will spend one hour every day playing outside will help them see it as part of their normal routine.Consistency is important.It may take a while for your children to get used to living without their cellphones and video games, but be patient and be consistent with them.Ask your kids what they liked the best about the outdoors.This will let you know that you're interested in their activities and will help you make sure they stay safe.).
Step 7: Expect some resistance.
If it hasn't been part of their lifestyle before, your children may not want to go outside.You may need to be firm with them at first.Don't give in to complaints and make it clear that this is part of their schedule.If your children are reluctant to play outside, you could offer a trade: if they spend an hour playing, they can earn some TV or video game time.They are more likely to enjoy playing outdoors if they play more.Send your kids on an errand if the neighborhood is safe for biking.They will get used to spending time outdoors if they have a specific goal to achieve.Make challenges.Give your kids specific challenges, such as a scavenger hunt or a "Survivor"-themed game, to get them outside.The structure will help them figure out how to play outside.Adding a reward, such as media time or release from chores, will make your kids more motivated to go outside.
Step 8: Accept the mess.
If your kids play outdoors, they will end up sweaty and dirty, and they need to know that that's okay.Studies show that getting dirty can strengthen children's immune systems.Give them some "play clothes" that they can wear and teach them how to clean up after themselves.
Step 9: There are things your kids can do outdoors.
If your kids have spent a lot of time with a computer, they don't know what to do outside.They will see the outdoors as full of fun possibilities when they are taught how to do things like make daisy chains, jump rope, and build snow forts.There are websites with lists of activities.You can find a lot of fun ideas by doing a few quick searches.You can learn new skills at nature centers, museums, after-school projects, community centers and more by taking local classes.
Step 10: You can host a backyard campout.
You can host a campout if you live in a rural or suburban area.Some fun games and activities can be provided by inviting neighbor children over to pitch a tent.The Great American Backyard Campout is sponsored by the National Wildlife Federation.If you don't have a backyard or live in an urban area, joining one of these events could be a good option.
Step 11: A garden can be planted.
Children should be involved in planting and maintaining plants.There are lots of websites that offer suggestions for kid-friendly gardens.The "bean teepee" is a fun project that your kids can use as an outdoor play space.There is still a garden area if you don't have a lot of outdoor space.You can plant a planter box with herbs that are easy to grow and use them in meals.If you have more space, you can grow a container garden.
Step 12: You can build a fort.
You can give your kids the raw materials to make their own forts, or you can make a bean fort.You don't need anything more than old sheets, branches and cardboard.Your kids can use their imaginations to build a play space.
Step 13: There is a nature scavenger hunt.
There are many places online to find scavenger hunt lists.When your kids finish the quest, having a challenge will give them a sense of accomplishment.It will work for kids who live in the city as well as those in rural or suburban areas.
Step 14: Get creative.
Send your children with a bucket or basket to find items for fun craft projects if they like collecting stuff.It is possible to make fun crafts and gifts out of seeds, pine cones, rocks, flowers, and leaves.
Step 15: It's possible to create a waterpark.
In the summer time, turn on the garden hose, add some buckets and squirt toys, and let your kids play.A homemade slip 'n slide can be made with some soapy water on a tarp.
Step 16: Buy a cheap camera.
Give your child an inexpensive camera that they can use to explore the outdoors and take pictures of what they see.There are many kid-friendly cameras available for under $100, and this will help them get more involved with and curious about their environment.
Step 17: Provide toys that can be used outside.
Jump ropes, soccer and basketballs, and sidewalk chalk don't work indoors.They may convince reluctant children to head outside.
Step 18: Do chores to have fun.
A reward like a big pile of leaves or the makings of a great snowman will encourage kids to be active and responsible, even if chores such as raking leaves and shoveling snow don't immediately appeal to them.
Step 19: Give them some freedom.
If you live in an appropriate area, allow your older children or teens to build a campfire.Let them take charge and teach them safety rules.Older kids need to be responsible.Check with your city council to see if there are any rules.
Step 20: Responsible tech use should be encouraged.
Older kids and teens can use the gps on their cellphones for outdoor activities, which may appeal to their need for independence.A child or teen could keep a diary about their outdoor activities.Teens love selfies, so encourage them to take photos of themselves doing cool activities outside or document their favorite outdoor adventures.Talk to your kids about using social media in a responsible way.
Step 21: Get to know other people.
Older children and teens like to hang out.Offer to drive your kids and their friends to a park, or encourage your child to go jogging with a friend instead of sitting on the couch.
Step 22: Provide equipment for the outdoors.
Both boys and girls enjoy sports.Almost anywhere, basketball hoops can be set up.Your teens will head outdoors if they have the equipment.