Celebrating Earth Day: Discover 6 Ways Spending Time in Nature Benefits Children’s Health  

Earth Day has arrived, and we are counting the days until camp starts! From swimming and hiking to boating, roasting marshmallows by the fire and stargazing with new friends, the opportunities to be immersed in the outdoors at camp are endless. Beyond adventures and new friendships, spending time in nature has incredible benefits for Fresh Air campers.   

From boosting confidence to improving overall well-being, outdoor activities play a vital role in children’s growth and development. To celebrate Earth Day, we are excited to share 6 ways spending time outdoors can have a positive impact on children’s health. 

Relieves Stress 

Being in the outdoors is a powerful way to decrease stress and boost children’s mood.  At Fresh Air camp, nature provides children with an environment to clear their minds, unplug from screens and be completely present in the moment. When campers return home, they can go on a short walk or spend time in a local park, which can enhance their overall well-being.  

Increased Physical Activity 

For children, staying active is key for emotional and physical development. Encouraging children to play outside is a critical way to promote healthy habits and learn new skills. Spending time in the outdoors also offers endless activities for movement – whether it’s running, hiking or playing sports with friends. These activities make exercise fun, helping children develop a positive relationship with the outdoors and an active lifestyle.  

A Boost of Energy 

Regular outdoor activity helps children build strength and stamina to apply to their daily routine with high energy levels! Walking, playing sports or running all promote movement which naturally builds children’s stamina and endurance. Increased exposure to natural sunlight is also a great way to increase energy and raise Vitamin D levels. 

Enhanced Social Skills 

Outdoor activities encourage children to engage with peers and improve social skills. Learning how to work as a team, communicate cooperatively and collaborate with peers are all ways children can benefit socially by spending time outside! 

Encourages Creativity

Being in nature fosters creativity! Completing nature scavenger hunts with friends or outdoor photography class can expand curiosity and inspire exploration. Whether it’s making up stories about the shapes of clouds in the sky or inventing a new game with friends, Fresh Air camp provides countless opportunities for children to connect with nature and sparks creative inspiration. 

Connecting with Nature 

Connecting with nature introduces children to new wonders, encouraging curiosity, creativity and a deeper understanding of the world beyond their everyday experiences. A child who spends time outdoors may be inspired by nature to further their creativity through drawing, art or photography. At camp, children broaden their perspective while learning new skills. 

Ready for a summer filled with outdoor adventures? Apply for camp today. 

Interested in learning more about how time in nature befits children? Read “The Fresh Air Fund: A Force of Nature” (Copyright © 2024 by The Fresh Air Fund All rights reserved.)