Over the years, fewer children are choosing to play outside. In a different generation, kids would love to play football or run around with their friends outdoors. It would not matter whether it was sunny or raining, they would want to be out of the house and having fun.
But, technology has meant that this mindset has changed. A lot of children choose to stay indoors and watch a screen. From playing video games all day to sitting on social media and posting content, fewer kids are playing outside now than ever before.
Yet, it does not have to be this way. In fact, there are ways you can encourage your child to get outside to play. Soon, this will be something that they enjoy. So, here are some tips to get your child playing outside and for them to have an amazing time.
Introduce Small Activities First
If your child is not used to playing outside a lot, you do not want to rush them. You want to slowly build up their confidence. You can do this by allowing them to complete small outdoor activities first. We are talking about helping to wash the car, do some gardening or even hanging up the washing on the line. This lets them get used to their surroundings first so that they can later venture outside on their own to have fun. You never know, your child might actually find it fun to help out with the daily chores!
Use the Imagination
We all know that young kids love to use their imagination. Perhaps they love to create stories in their head and even have an imaginary friend. Well, this is something you can use to encourage them to get outside and have some fun. It can also allow them to build up their confidence too. Therefore, think about a story that they are going to enjoy being part of and how it can take them outside. Perhaps you can play a lava game or where they have to rescue a friend. This is going to be exciting for your child and it can be a good way to make them feel comfortable. Going outside can be overwhelming for some children so using your imagination can be a way around this.
Go Slow and be Patient
Again, it is important to realize that not all children have the confidence to play outside straight away on their own. It is easy for young children to find new environments overwhelming when they are not used to them. While going out into the street is easy for you, try to put yourself in your child’s shoes. In other words, be understanding and patient to begin with. Move slowly and do not rush them too quickly. A little bit every day is going to be more beneficial than rushing everything in one day. Eventually, your child is going to feel a lot more confident going outside to play and they will be able to do this on their own.
A good tip is to use your child’s favorite toys outside to begin with. For example, if your kids love to build puzzles, simply take them outside into the garden or in the street. This way they feel comfortable with something that they recognize. It gives them something familiar to start with.
Treat Them to an Outdoor Toy
When your child is more confident being outside, they are going to benefit from having a toy that can only be used outdoors. This is going to encourage them to get out more and provide some excitement too. If you are not sure what to purchase, we recommend an iDocyke kit! This is going to be the best toy for a number of reasons.
First of all, we all know that purchasing another toy for your child can be expensive. In particular, they grow up so fast and this can mean that they physically outgrow a lot of bikes and scooters. But, this is not something that happens with an iDocyke kit. First of all, they are an investment that lasts. This is a toy that is going to last your child a number of years and they can grow up with it. This is not only going to save you money, but it is also going to ensure that your child has a toy for many years that they love. This can give them the confidence they need to play outside on a regular basis.
Let’s not forget that an iDocyke kit is fun for everyone! You and your child can build a toy together and they can have fun with it outside. It is exciting to build and there is the freedom to build a number of different toys. What’s more, when your child has had enough of a trike or scooter, they can then build a bike or even a go-kart. There are so many toys for your child to enjoy!
Get Out as a Family
Let’s be honest, we could all spend a bit more time with the kids. When you have a busy week and you are working, the weekend and evenings are the only time you have for fun activities. It can be difficult to make plans and have a lot of time. But, getting outside to play with your children is something that you can do for free, without a lot of effort and at any time during the week. The kids are going to be excited that you are joining in and they will begin to associate playing outside as something really fun and a family affair.
Of course, when you have some more time, you can arrange outdoor trips. For example, you can take the bikes and head on a cycling weekend somewhere new. The possibilities are endless when it comes to outside activities and you can spend some quality time with your kids. Plus, you are all getting good exercise and some fresh air away from technology.