Getting children outdoors is more important than ever. A study ran by the National Trust found that children spend half as much time playing outside as their parents did when they were younger.
- Getting outside helps children to build confidence as they play, whether it be through imaginative play in the back garden, or interacting with other kids in the park.
- Nature provides different stimulation compared to the technology kids play with today because it activates their senses. You can hear, see, smell and touch so many different things in nature, things that kids can never experience through a screen.
- Children get more exercise because they are moving about and running rather than sitting inside on the sofa. Exercise and fresh air can really improve your child’s mind and mood, it encourages them to focus and use their initiative.
- It reduces stress and tiredness – technology, screens and school work can really tire children out, and cause them to feel stressed. Getting them outside, or on a camping trip will give them a chance to relax, destress, and find their energy again.
Outdoor Camping ideas to keep your kids busy
Dig a hole
Simple yet effective! Children love digging and playing with mud, especially the younger ones. Bring some buckets, spades and shovels and watch them dig away. You could even bring some toy trucks for them to load mud, leaves and stones into for a bit of imaginary play.
