The Benefits of Outdoor Play 🌿

Did you know that being outdoors can make a huge difference to your child's happiness, health and learning?

Research shows that 87% of children feel genuinely happy when they are in nature — yet children today spend less time outside than ever before. Here's why we think that's worth changing!

Better focus and attention
Children who spend more time outdoors show better concentration, memory and attention. Even a short walk in nature can help your child feel calmer and more focused.

Better physical health
Outdoor play supports balance, coordination and fitness. It also helps reduce the risk of obesity and health issues linked to too much screen time or time spent indoors.

Better sleep
Natural light and fresh air help regulate your child's body clock, leading to deeper and more restful sleep. 😴

Better wellbeing and self-regulation
Being outside especially in natural spaces — lowers stress and helps children feel more relaxed and balanced. Sensory experiences like feeling the breeze, touching leaves or playing with mud have a wonderfully calming effect and help children manage their emotions and build resilience.

Better learning
Many children who find it hard to focus indoors absolutely thrive when learning and exploring outside. Green spaces support healthier body weights, stronger immune systems and improved overall wellbeing.

At St Edmund's we use outdoor time as a chance for children to reset, reconnect with nature and recharge — every single day.

So next time you get the chance  wrap up warm, head outside together and enjoy the fresh air! Even just a few minutes can make a big difference to your child's mood, sleep and wellbeing. 🌳😊

Inspired by research from The Neuroscience of 0–5 Year Olds by Dr Gemma Goldenberg