With the presence of technology, children love to stay in and play with their phones, computers, or tablets. Like before, children have to gallivant, fall, bruise their knees, dirt their clothes, among many other things. Sometimes, parents are worried that their children may not be experiencing everything the outdoors have to offer.
Making more friends
The dangers of social isolation lie significantly in the mental and emotional development of the brain. Studies show that lack of social interaction in children results in “psychological distress [sic] in adulthood.” The body perceives isolation as a threat because socialization is a basic need. Therefore, the brain reacts with stress and releases hormones that have physiological effects as well. Aside from this, the child may be prone to feelings of loneliness as they grow up.
Children need to go out and enjoy activities brought by children’s fitness franchise opportunities, where they can meet new friends and develop their social skills. When they grow up, these skills will come in handy at school, during their teenage years, and when they go out to look for a job or a significant other. When they experience relationships, they can form healthy communication habits that will allow them to express themselves adequately.
Getting some sun
Sun exposure has several health benefits. It can enhance a person’s mood and relieve stress due to the increase in the production of serotonin. It can help the body follow its circadian rhythm, improving their quality of sleep. Sun exposure sets the body clock because the body processes light and, in a way, relies on it to tell the time for physiological processes.
Taking the kids out to a walk early in the morning is not only healthy but also an excellent time to bond with each other. Parents and children can have conversations about school or friends or other mundane things during the walk, and they won’t even notice they’re exercising and getting some Vitamin D.
Prevent health hazards from developing
For children, staying indoors is a great experience. They have no prior obligations, appointments, or set schedules to follow every day. They can watch TV or play video games all day without even noticing the day has passed.
Excessive exposure to screens damages the eyes. It can cause digital eyestrain, and possibly myopia or nearsightedness in the long run. Other effects are dry eye, headaches, and blurry vision. When people are in front of a screen, they blink less. Hence, the eyestrain. Experts suggest that a 20-second break for every 20 minutes can help reduce these symptoms.
Children who would rather stay in front of their screens may have their physical activity compromised. As a result, children become overweight or obese. In 2016, 41 million children worldwide were overweight. This results in diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and other lifestyle complications. Other than this, children who are overweight suffer from bullying, which can result in social isolation and depression.
By going out, children can run, jump, and play around with other kids instead of staying indoors watching TV or playing video games. Therefore, preventable diseases are less likely to develop in children. Children will also develop better social skills that can get them through life.
