Survival Active
Family Fun Outdoors
H
This winter why not get the kids to switch off the TV, computer and Playstation and head outside for a few hours, you will be amazed at how much better you feel!! By Ingrid Wilkinson: Nature Play Volunteering Co-ordinator, Play England
ow much time do your children spend on a computer, Playsta- tion or watching TV? And when they’re not, do you feel a need to be ‘paying for’ entertainment or travelling to an organised activity?
There are many interesting things to do right on your very own door step or even in your garden or outside space. Why not consider spending time out- doors and getting in touch with nature? The benefits of being outdoors are immense with a wealth of research indicating exposure to the natural environ- ment is really good for us and actually improves our health and wellbeing.
Children will love the opportunity to spend time as a family and begin to explore their local environment. First and foremost get well wrapped up, you can play outside in all weathers as long as you are warm and not worrying about getting new clothes dirty or soiled. Keep aside some old clothes which can be used for exploring outdoors. A good investment
would be to purchase some waterproofs and wellies, these will come in handy on many occasions! Now decide on what to do and where to go!
Fun things to do and make in your own outside space
Den building – gather up some old blankets, sheets, cushions etc that the kids can use to help make their den outdoors. Old carpet, card- board boxes and tubing, netting and pegs will all come in useful. Once outside a good selection of
“ The more children play outdoors, the more they learn to cope with the risks and challenges they will go on to face as adults... Nothing can replace what children gain from the freedom and independence of thought they have when trying new things out in the open” (Tanya Byron, 2009)
WWW.MUMSSURVIVALGUIDES.CO.UK 13
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