Over the past generation, outdoor playtime among children in the United States has declined by 71%. Research indicates that children now spend an average of only four to seven minutes per day in unstructured outdoor play. In contrast, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity for Children while the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) (AAP) suggests that children aged 2 to 5 may require two or more hours of physical activity per day.
The increasing prevalence of digital technology has significantly altered children's play habits, replacing traditional, self-directed outdoor activities with screen-based entertainment. This shift has contributed to rising rates of childhood obesity and mental health concerns, including depression. According to the CDC, the percentage of overweight youth has more than tripled since 1980.
To address these challenges, it is crucial to promote higher levels of physical activity while significantly reducing screen time. Outdoor play serves as a fundamental component of children's physical development. As adults, we have a responsibility to emphasize the value of play and encourage active lifestyles, setting a strong foundation for future generations to grow up both physically and mentally healthy.
Laughter, movement, and exploration—these are the hallmarks of a vibrant playground. While playgrounds are often associated with carefree fun, they play a crucial role in childhood development. Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), speaking before a federal subcommittee, emphasized the profound impact of outdoor play on children’s growth:
“Play in an outdoor, natural environment allows children to explore both their world and their own minds… places virtually no bounds on the imagination and engages all of the senses. For all children, this setting allows for the full blossoming of creativity, curiosity, and the associated developmental advances.”
Our partner organization, IPEMA, a leading authority in playground industry research and development, has highlighted the significant role of play in fostering a child’s highest level of development. Studies confirm that unstructured outdoor play provides numerous benefits, enhancing physical, emotional, social, and cognitive skills essential for well-rounded growth.
Outdoor play fosters the development of essential emotional skills in children, enhancing their self-confidence and self-esteem through activities such as risk assessment, conflict resolution, and imaginative play. Engaging in unstructured play allows children to explore different emotions and outcomes through creative and pretend scenarios. Research by Andrea Faber Taylor from the University of Illinois, published in the Journal of Attention Disorders (2009), indicates that children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) demonstrate improved concentration after outdoor play. Additionally, a comprehensive report by the National Wildlife Federation, Whole Child: Developing Mind, Body, and Spirit through Outdoor Play, highlights that time spent in nature can help reduce stress in children.
Engaging in play offers significant physical benefits, enhancing a child's reflex development, movement control, and both fine and gross motor skills. It also promotes flexibility, balance, and overall physical fitness. Play is essential for key developmental milestones such as crawling, walking, running, and jumping, each of which contributes to a child's health and well-being. Even a seemingly simple activity like self-propelled swinging provides a comprehensive full-body workout while improving coordination, time sequencing, and balance.
Play helps children develop language and reasoning skills, encourages critical thinking and problem-solving. It also helps their ability to focus and control their behavior. Kaplan’s (1995) Attention Restoration Theory (ART), explains the cognitive benefits nature provides. The theory suggests that nature has the capacity to renew attention after exerting mental energy such as; feeling tired after studying, working tirelessly on a work project or an assessment. Experts from neuroscientists to child development researchers agree that play is essential for brain development.
Outdoor play areas often serve as an early setting for children to engage in social interactions. Developing social skills is a crucial aspect of a child's growth, shaping their ability to communicate, cooperate, and build relationships. The experiences gained in these environments contribute to the foundation of well-adjusted and socially adept individuals.
“Almost all creativity involves purposeful play.”
– Abraham Maslow, Psychologist
“Highlights how outdoor environments provide unique opportunities for both children and adults to express different aspects of their personalities that may not typically emerge indoors. Building on the research of Maynard, Waters, and Clement, she emphasizes that outdoor play fosters a deeper understanding of children, enabling more effective educational interventions. Additionally, it has been observed that outdoor play reduces conflicts and encourages greater cooperation among children”
