Bachpan kahan hai?
Remember the good old days when we used to play outside in the rain as kids? All wet, covered in mud and sweat, making paper boats and sailing them in puddles of rainwater made in front of our eyes.
When we did not understand the concept of time we used to find ways to go outside and play even if it wasn’t raining, we used to play outside on sunny days, right after we got home from school, playing hide and seek, kho-kho, or even running around the park was so fun!
All those outdoor activities we used to do don’t happen much anymore.
Why?
Children Compromise Their Childhood For Academics
Children these days have a really hectic schedule, and we can’t even blame them for not going outside much. They have to focus on school, their coaching and tuition, and homework. Their entire day goes away sharpening and honing their academic skills, but what about their outdoor activities?
Kids tend to stay indoors as they are always involved in technology and study-related activities, so much so that they don’t get time to actually go out some days. The exam stress, homework stress, and timely tuition make their lives more stressful than they ever were. They don’t even speak up because they are told that education is their top priority and that it’s mandatory for them to get those skills instead of focusing on and balancing other things they are actually interested in.
That’s why today, children suffer from a nature-deficit disorder.
What is Nature-deficit disorder?
Well, Nature-Deficit Disorder is the idea that we (human beings), especially children, are spending less time engaging in outdoor activities than they have in the past, and the belief that this change results in a wide range of behavioral problems,
These behavioral problems consist of:
Attention Difficulties:
Not being outside enough can make it hard for kids to concentrate and pay attention. This might even cause problems like ADHD.
Stress and Anxiety:
Lack of contact with natural environments may increase stress levels and contribute to heightened anxiety among children.
Obesity and Physical Health Concerns:
Insufficient outdoor activities may also lead to a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to obesity and associated health problems, and we don’t want that for our kids, right?
Reduced Creativity and Imagination:
The development of creativity, imagination, and problem-solving abilities may be hindered due to limited exposure to nature in children. Kids need to be free!
Emotional Instability:
Disconnecting from nature may lead to emotional instability and mood disorders due to the lack of natural elements known to have a calming effect.
Decline in Environmental Awareness:
Reduced time spent outdoors may result in a lack of understanding and appreciation for the natural world, impacting environmental consciousness and conservation efforts.
Social Skill Deficits:
Insufficient interaction with outdoor settings may hinder the development of social skills, including communication and teamwork abilities.
These issues happen because kids don’t spend much time doing outdoor activities and aren’t connected to nature like they used to be.
How can it be fixed, you ask? We have curated the 10 best outdoor activities you can do with your kids to keep them healthy—physically and mentally!
Here’s how:
Best Outdoor activities for kids
Nature Scavenger Hunt:
You know that feeling of excitement when your child discovers hidden treasures? A scavenger hunt does just that! Find unique pebbles or different leaves while they learn about nature—it boosts observation skills and sparks curiosity.
Plus, it’s a problem-solving adventure!
Bike Riding:
Pedal power!
Bike rides are like magical health potions. They boost everyone’s heart health and balance, and those leg muscles? Oh, they get a solid workout.
And guess what? Riding bikes also ignites confidence and independence in your little explorers!
Gardening:
Get your hands dirty!
Gardening is like nurturing nature. It teaches patience and responsibility while your kids learn all about plants and their lifecycles.
Plus, it’s a sensory wonderland for them!
Hiking or Nature Walks:
Step into nature’s gym!
Walking in parks or hiking hills isn’t just about fitness; it’s a lesson in ecosystems. Your kids become nature detectives, observing and reducing stress levels in the fresh air. (Highly recommended)
Outdoor Art:
Let the creativity flow!
Sidewalk chalk or painting with natural materials? It’s a blast!
Kids get to express themselves, communicating through art while letting their imagination shine.
Water Play:
Splash-tastic fun!
Water activities bring relief on hot days and encourage physical activity. Plus, it’s like a secret exercise for hand-eye coordination. Who knew staying cool could be this beneficial?
Obstacle Course or Parkour:
Become a ninja! Jumping and climbing!
These activities build strength, boost confidence, and unleash your child’s inner creative problem-solver as it encourages creativity in navigating obstacles.
Camping:
Nature’s sleepover!
Camping is extremely fun! Keeps your child entertained and engaged the entire time because there is so much to do throughout the activity.
It not only teaches them survival skills in a controlled environment but also encourages teamwork and cooperation, and instills a sense of adventure and exploration.
Bird Watching or Bug Hunting:
More exploration!
Become nature experts!
Watching birds and exploring bugs sparks a love for wildlife. It’s like a science lesson outdoors!
Watching birds and exploring the kinds of bugs encourages an interest in wildlife and biodiversity, teaches observation and identification skills, and enhances knowledge about different species too.
Fun + Educational!
Sports:
Score some fun!
Soccer, basketball, or frisbee—pick your game!
Sports are the ultimate fitness combo.
Improves physical fitness and coordination, teaches teamwork and sportsmanship, boosts self-esteem and confidence, provides an outlet for energy, and promotes a healthy lifestyle.
These highly recommned your to explore these fun activities and perform with your children for a better overall growth.
You know who believes in overall growth and development of children? Cybard School! Checkout “Extracurricular Activities” we provide.
Final Remarks
At Cyboard School, we’re all about giving your child the best. We’re not just about books and classes; we believe in a complete education.
That’s why we’re big on outdoor activities!
We do meet ups and picnics every other week so your child can socialize and grow!
We want your child to learn and grow beyond academics. When kids play, explore nature, and do fun things outside, they’re learning important life skills—like teamwork, creativity, and staying healthy.
We are soon to follow the new NCF 2023 updated Indian education policy.
Join us at Cyboard School, where we encourage outdoor fun alongside studies. Let’s give our kids the best of both worlds and watch them shine in everything they do!
Interested in Cyboard School? Enroll your child today!
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