Ready, set, Play outside!

It is starting to feel like summer! The sun is shining and students are getting restless for summer vacation. We all know it has been a long year inside, so let’s make it our mission to enjoy the outdoors even more this summer. 

According to an article published by the Child Mind Institute, “The average American child is said to spend 4 to 7 minutes a day in unstructured play outdoors, and over 7 hours a day in front of a screen”. This is of course to no fault of their own. Playing indoors can seem easier for children since it is normally climate controlled, accessible to necessary items (bathroom, food, etc.) and allows for socialization through electronics.

However, there are definite benefits to spending time outdoors and we hope that you and your mentee take advantage of them! Child Mind Institute notes that, “Most of the studies agree that kids who play outside are smarter, happier, more attentive, and less anxious than kids who spend more time indoors”.

To view the entire article please click here.

I hope you have a great start to your summer!
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Darian Schmitz