Summer activities in Europe are easy to find as there is such a variety of things to do. However, how important is it for your child to be in the outdoors this summer?
Finnish Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) values it highly for children to play outside. Outdoor activities are seen as hugely positive for the effects they have on children’s well-being. The simple yet essential perks of ‘taking it outside’ can be summarized as below.
Improves physical strength and resilience
A key part of outdoor play is the element of physical exercise. Children have the space and freedom to move around, work off their energy and develop a sweat. At summer camps they spend a majority of their day in nature, and as a result they can improve their speed, strength, stamina and motor skills. This in return also supports the improvement of their self-image, self-esteem and an awareness of their own body. Having a location where children can be challenged in a variety of outdoor activities increases the likelihood of children improving their physical well-being.
Supports embodied learning
Embodied learning is when movement or physical activity promotes intellectual growth. When children engage in outdoor activities they explore and interact with the outside world. They engage with their environments, and on one hand, this fuels their curiosity and interest to learn more. On the other hand this significantly impacts how children learn directives, acquire abstract ideas and make sense of the world. Therefore, outdoor activities directly support children’s brain development and at summer camps camper development.
Develops holistic and creative thinking
An undeniable element of outdoor play is the appreciation for nature it nurtures in children. Studies have shown feeling connected to nature to promote holistic, creative and innovative thinking. When encountered with a challenge in nature, even as simple as climbing a rock, it doesn’t just prompt you to overcome the problem. It also makes you understand the environment and how it works. This is key to helping children understand the importance of protecting the nature.
Promotes mental health
Outdoor activities allow children to enjoy fresh air, sunlight and the beauty of the world around them. They engage in more social interactions which develops empathy, collaboration and cultural competence. Moreover, playing in the sun is fun and makes us happy. Thus, outdoor activities also lead to a decrease in anxiety, depression and hyperactivity among children.
Summer camps are amazing places where children can experience all of this. They’re especially incredible because children are constantly surrounded by incredible nature.
