National Play Outside Day, which falls on Aug. 7, encourages every individual, irrespective of their age, to practice some outdoor gaming activities for a healthier living. The day was proclaimed in March 2011 by Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta to create general awareness about the benefits of playing outside.
In the wake of the pandemic situation and social distancing, children have been forced to stay at home to curb the spread of the disease, posing an added challenge for parents to keep them calm at home. While the threat of the virus still looms, children can still play in backyards and under open skies to get closer to nature and cut down on screen time.
Outdoor running, jumping, and throwing balls will help prevent obesity and improve motor skills. The activities will also work to develop motor skills, strengthen bones and increase muscular strength.
They will have better cognitive as well as emotional development.
Children will grow more immune to several seasonal diseases by playing outside because the outdoor light will stimulate the pineal gland. Spending time with nature will also improve the mood and happiness of children thereby helping them concentrate better in their studies.
Playing outside improves their peer-to-peer relationships as children learn to care for others when they play together. Studies have shown that children that play outside and less likely to grow into bullies. Furthermore, they will grow team spirit by playing outside.
