Most
kids love exploring nature, but for many of them, they are rarely given
opportunities to get outside. Either their parents are too busy or they find
themselves stuck in their bedrooms glued to video games.
As a parent, it's your responsibility to introduce your children to nature, and
a great way to do this is by letting them play on natural playground equipment.
All you have to do is simply send the kids outdoors and tell them to explore. Chances
are, there's a park with natural playground equipment near where you live.
Step 1: Get them to go outside
It might seem like the most challenging thing you've ever done, but once you
peel your kids away from their electronic devices and push them out the door,
they will fall in love with nature, especially when playing on a natural
playground. Sure, some kids love certain parts of nature more than others, and
you need to do your best to identify what aspects each of your kids like. You
need to keep this in mind when you send your kids outside.
Step 2: Incorporate nature into their
playgrounds
Unless you're a stay-at-home parent, it's unlikely that you have lots of time
to spend with the kids outdoors. Because of this, it's reasonable to assume
that most of the time your kids spend enjoying nature will be in the comfort of
your own backyard. To help them enjoy nature to its fullest, it's a good idea
to give them a natural playground. In fact, research has shown that kids tend
to have more fun outside when nature itself is incorporated into
their playgrounds.
Step 3: Go to the lake
In many areas of the country, there's a good chance there's a nearby lake.
Whether it's two minutes away or 30, it’s a good idea to expose your kids to
water. This doesn't mean you have to rent a boat and go tubing, but with water
being one of the most vital elements on Earth, it's important that your
children experience it. There are lots lakes and camping areas that have
natural playgrounds, so make sure to let the kids play if you come across one.
Step 4: Go for walks
A simple walk through your neighborhood is a great way to introduce your kids
to nature. Even if you live in the city, there's a lot to be explored. From
looking at plants to watching birds fly, your kids will love it when you spend
time with them outdoors. If there happen to be natural playgrounds located
nearby, you can walk the kids to the park and let them play.
David Reeves is the Marketing Director of
Superior Recreational Products (SRP) in Carrollton, GA. For over 30 years, Grounds For Play, a
division of SRP, has focused on designing play environments for specific age
groups that provide challenging mental and physical exercises in a safe
environment. Our play environments have become standard in everything from U.S.
military installations to schools and apartment complexes. Connect with GFP on Facebook.