Parents would always want what's best for
their children. Outdoor playtime can be good for them, to help them explore
their environment, develop their motor skills, meet the neighbors, and make new
friends. Nowadays, children spend more time on their electronic gadgets than
spending their time playing under the sun. It gets harder for parents to take
away their gadgets and take them out to play. Here are a few tips on ways that
can help encourage your kids to play outside.
1. Backyard
If you live in a village or town that doesn't
have a public playground, you can create your own in your backyard. You can
purchase quality kids sports toys
from Step2 Direct for your child's small
playground. This way, you can also invite your neighbor's kids to come out and
play.
2. Treasures
Let your children explore and keep whatever
they find interesting from their play area. Items like oddly shaped rocks, twigs,
leaves, but not living insects. You can create a special space for this on
their nightstand or dresser to help inspire them to go out and look for more.
3. Play tools
Kids love to play pretend; you can buy toys online
Australia from Step2 Direct for your children
like trowels, magnifying glass, bucket, watering can, etc. These play tools can
also help them in discovering new things and experiencing what it's like to
water the plants, observe the small bugs, dig up sand, etc.
4. Exploration
Try not to limit your kids on the paths they
take during a walking trip to the park or a walk on the shore. This doesn't
necessarily mean you'd let them be, always supervise them while taking a
minimal effort in deciding for them where to walk and which path to take.
5. Encourage Them
Give them a playtime schedule that they'd
always look forward to. Encourage them to play outside or bring them with you
when going to the grocery store or walking the dog. This can take their time
away from gadgets.
6. Challenge Areas
You can build a challenging area for them
like lining up used tires, setting up a small crawling area, a balancing plank,
etc. This can help them in the development of their body coordination
and balance; it also challenges them to finish the challenge without falling or
tripping.
7. Outdoor Activities
Introduce them to outdoor activities like
kayaking, fishing, boat riding, biking, etc. These adventures seem extreme for
them, which they would enjoy and look forward to the next time you go out for
another adventure.
8. Playmates
Having playmates and playdates can encourage
your child to go out and play. They would often look forward to the next time they
would see their playmate and enjoy their company during playtime. You can try
and set a time and day every week with their parents so that they can all enjoy
playing.
Final Word
Introducing your kids to new areas and
experiences can help take their attention away from their gadgets and initiate
their sense of exploration. Encourage your kids to step out of their comfort
zones so that as they grow older, they can build their confidence and
self-esteem.