Take a look at our happy faces during varied outdoor play. With the weather a little cooler right now, we have embraced the outdoors both by keeping our classroom windows open and spending more time outside. Outdoor play is not only beneficial, but also crucial for the brain’s healthy development.
Researchers say that the frontal cortex, which is responsible for controlling emotions and problem solving, is activated during playtime. The experience of playing forces the brain to make those neurotransmitter connections that are critical to a child’s development.
Outdoor play is especially critical in core muscle development, small motor skill refinement, and increasing coordination. Children need to navigate obstacles, maintain appropriate space around other children, and use their strength to throw, catch, manipulate objects or tackle a jungle gym.
