What is one effect of outdoor play on children's well-being?

Outdoor play has a significant positive effect on children's well-being, particularly in that it encourages physical activity and exploration. When children engage in outdoor play, they are more likely to participate in active games and physical movements that promote fitness and health. This increased level of activity can benefit cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones, and help in maintaining a healthy weight.

Moreover, outdoor environments provide unique opportunities for children to explore and interact with nature, which fosters curiosity and promotes cognitive development. When children are allowed to run, climb, and manipulate natural elements like water, sand, and plants, they engage in unstructured play that enhances their problem-solving skills and creativity. These experiences are crucial for their social development as well, as they often occur in group settings where children learn to cooperate, share, and communicate with their peers.

In contrast, increased screen time detracts from physical activity, while creating physical barriers and limiting creativity are not outcomes associated with outdoor play but rather with a lack of interaction with the environment. Thus, encouraging outdoor play is a fundamental aspect of promoting holistic development in children.