Does It Actually Matter?
We’ve all heard about the importance of spending time in nature. From social media posts to advice from health professionals, spending time in nature is often billed as essential for children’s wellbeing. But what does that really mean for us as parents, practitioners and caregivers? And does outdoor play really make a difference?
In a world filled with screens, it’s become increasingly common to see children sitting in pushchairs or on benches absorbed in a tablet or phone, even on a beautiful day. While technology certainly has its place, stepping away from screens and into the outdoors opens up a whole new world of opportunity for children and young people. Nature provides a space for imagination, exploration and freedom that simply can’t be replicated indoors.
Research continues to highlight just how valuable outdoor play can be. Studies have shown that time spent in natural environments can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and promote a greater sense of calm and wellbeing.
A recent study by the University of Exeter demonstrates the positive long-term impact of outdoor play. It found that preschool children who played outdoors more frequently were more likely to remain in a low symptom, good mental health group through to middle childhood (Dodd et al. 2026). This kind of longitudinal research reinforces the idea that small, consistent habits of outside natural play can have lasting benefits.
But it’s not just about mental health and wellbeing, outdoor play supports physical development too. Running, climbing, balancing and exploring uneven ground all help to build strength, coordination, and confidence. Unlike structured activities, outdoor play is often child initiated, meaning children choose their play, can take risks, challenge themselves, build social relationships and learn through experience.
For parents and carers, the benefits are just as meaningful. Spending time outdoors together strengthens relationships and helps build a deeper understanding of a child’s abilities and interests. Without the distractions of busy indoor environments or digital devices, conversations tend to flow more easily and shared experiences like spotting wildlife or finding treasures create lasting memories.
Cultural and social factors also shape how we view outdoor play. For some families, outdoor play may not always feel accessible or safe, particularly if you live in a densely populated urban area. This highlights the importance of creating inclusive, supportive opportunities for all children to experience the outdoors, whether that’s through local parks, school settings or community initiatives.
It’s also important to remember that outdoor play isn’t just for young children, teenagers and older children benefit from spending time outside too. Beyond social media photo opportunities, being outdoors offers a chance to disconnect from online pressures, build stronger peer relationships and develop a greater appreciation for the natural world around them.
So, how can we make outdoor play or nature experiences part of everyday life? The good news is that it doesn’t need to be complicated. Small changes, like walking to school, spending time in the garden (if you have one), or visiting a local green space can make a big difference. Short bursts of outdoor time can have a positive impact.
Ultimately, outdoor play and time in nature really does matter. It supports physical health, boosts mental wellbeing, strengthens relationships and sparks curiosity. In the rush of daily life, getting outside can easily be pushed aside by our ever-growing “to-do” lists, but those simple moments in nature are some of the most valuable we can give ourselves and the children in our care.
Further reading:
Alla, K. and Truong, M. (2024) Nature play and child wellbeing. Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies.
Dodd, H. et al. (2026) ‘Early outdoor play predicts trajectories of child mental health in a population-based cohort’, Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.
Lomax, H. et al. (2025) ‘The effect of nature on the mental health and wellbeing of children and adolescents: a meta-review’, The British Journal of Psychiatry.
Louv, R. (2005) Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder. Chapel Hill, NC: Algonquin Books.
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