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We all know that physical play and outdoor play is essential to the development of a child’s body and mind. There are many factors that help a child to grow and be healthy, and outside play is just one of them. However, if we do not encourage our children to enjoy physical play, we are actually hindering their physical growth. In the brain of a young child, a 3-year olds brain is twice as active as a college student’s brain. The most important time for physical and motor skill development is birth through age 12. Before I researched this, I had no idea that the window of development stayed open that long. But don’t forget that kids start sitting and watching TV by age 4, and then playing video games by age 6 or 7. The potential of development is hindered through mindless activities. By allowing our children to sit for hours in a day, we are hurting their natural development process. It’s a fact, that when we are active, our bodies work better. When our bodies work better, our minds do too. You must exercise them both. This is true for every age person, form youngest to oldest. Physical exercise is so important for our growth, when our bodies are young. Moreover, physical activity is important to maintain our body and keep it in proper working order. Outdoor activities are important, since we get health benefits from sunlight. Sunlight helps release vitamin D into our bodies and releases endorphins into our bloodstream. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that “children and teens should be physically active for 60 minutes a day.” Outside or physical play time does not have to be for an hour, all at once. Even short 10 or 20 minute windows, several times a day is okay. It doesn’t really matter how you get it, just as long as you do! For children, get them outside to play every day. Put them on a schedule that promotes physical activity, or take away distractions during the week (like tv or video games). As adults, we have to set a time during the day for us, when we can get up and exercise. Whether we walk outside or do some yard work or gardening, we have to make sure we are active for our health’s sake. Statistics for adult health and heart are found at: http://www.heart.org The playsets I really liked for kids were at http://www.playnation.com Another site that sells kids outdoor play accessories and swing sets is http://www.gorillaplaysets.com
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outdoor play, staying active, weight loss, childhood obesity, playset, playground, swingset,
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