“Play is the work of the child. Watching a child makes it obvious that the development of his mind comes through his movements”
That’s the benefit of play for young children that Dr. Maria Montessori stated. This is a fundamental need that children perform every day, and also is a critical factor to stimulate the healthy development of children in terms of intellectual, physical, social cognitive, positive emotions, and life skills.
Let’s explore 6 benefits of outdoor play for young children with Sakura Montessori:
1. Learn new things and nurture a love for nature: By playing games, children develop the ability to observe and learn, building a foundation to equip themselves with critical life skills such as problem-solving, knowledge obtaining, exploring the world of science, etc. Particularly, children who spend much time playing outdoor tend to develop a bigger love for and connection with nature.
2.Develop physical health and movement ability: Outdoor play with the slide, the swing, and the see-saw help children release their energy and improve their stamina. They learn how to respond and how to control flexibly their hands, legs, and the body, at the same time improving their development of bones and muscles.
Apart from that, while playing outside, children also have the chance to breathe in the fresh air and absorb vitamin D from the sunlight.
3. Develop creative thinking: Playing in a place with green plants and objects will stimulate the brain, boost creativity and enhance imagination in young children. Thus, their perspective of the world gradually opens up, helping children to master their knowledge and skills over time.
4. Form social skills: According to studies, children who often play outside make friends and interact more easily with others. Meanwhile, children who love staying at home tend to be more reserved and shy.
5. Enhance attention: Outdoor play can help children improve their attention, focus, observation, and reasoning. That’s because children must use their attention and observation skills during play.
6. Establish and form personality: By playing, children will learn about independence, how to adapt to emergencies, and how to stand up again after failure. Additionally, outdoor play with friends also helps children develop other properties such as self-discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
With significant benefits of outdoor play, here at Sakura Montessori, play is always the main aspect that is appropriately integrated into learning, giving children a balance between learning and playing, making them feel joyful and happy each day at school.
At Sakura Montessori, children are given at least 30 minutes per day for outdoor activities, outing trips, or monthly/periodical activities. These promote comprehensive development in children during their first 6 years of life.
Moreover, all campuses within the Sakura Montessori system are designed with a spacious outdoor playground for children to move and learn, and to develop their reasoning skills, creativity, and interactions.
Register here for further information about Sakura Montessori: TẠI ĐÂY
