Sunlight offers many health benefits. The Vitamin D that we get from the sun helps our circulatory and nervous systems perform better, is a great antioxidant for growing bones and bodies, helps synchronize our internal clock (which means better sleep), and helps us develop a healthier and stronger immune system. It also helps improve our emotional wellness by stimulating the production of Serotonin. Serotonin is the “happy hormone” and can improve our mood while also managing sleep and appetite. Simply put, it is the best natural antidepressant.

The early years of development are important for helping your child to explore new things and get comfortable with new environments. Including nature in your child’s routines, is a great way to help them develop a love for the outdoors from a young age.

Time in nature can help your child to engage in exploration, natural and new environments. Picking developmentally appropriate and safe activities to try with your child can be challenging, so here are a few ideas to try that will match your child’s developmental stage:

• 0-to-3 months old: Enjoy Tummy Time on a blanket outside!
• 3-to-6 months old: Take your baby on a nature walk through the neighborhood. Talk to them about everything you see. Even though your baby may not understand what you are saying, they will enjoy the time in the sun and in the fresh air, as well as hearing your voice.
• 6-to-12 months old: Help your baby explore the different textures of the outdoors (grass, pavement, etc.) by allowing them to crawl or walk around outside with supervision.
• Toddlers (2-3 years old): Help them develop fine motor skills through learning to throw and chase balls or blow and chase bubbles outside.
• Preschoolers (3-5 years old): Use engaging games like hide-and-seek to help them learn to play with others and explore the outdoors.
• Grade school children, specifically 4th graders: The “Every Kids Outdoors” website has great ideas and options for getting your child outdoors and enjoying nature.

There are so many fun ways to enjoy the sunshine and the outdoors with your child, but the list above can give you a good starting point with your child. Angela Hanscom, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, recommends an average of 3 hours of outdoor playtime, per day, for a child. That may seem like a lot at first but it can be a goal you can work towards over the summer. Get out there and enjoy the sunshine for yourself and your child!