(Family Features) Summer is the time to get outside and remember the importance of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed as a family. Encouraging children at an early age to participate in outdoor exploration can help foster lifelong skills. For example, research published in the “ International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health ” found associations between nature exposure and improved cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity and sleep.
What’s more, kids who play and take part in outdoor adventures learn skills like problem solving, according to the American Academy of Pediatricians . However, for many families with little ones, this summer might be their first foray into activities like exploring playgrounds or enjoying backyard campouts. Opportunities to be more active outdoors bring obvious benefits.
With that in mind, it’s important that families embark on these activities with the proper fuel. All the energy kids burn playing outdoors and taking on new adventures can work up an appetite, making it an opportune time to introduce new foods. It might even be a little one’s first time trying seasonal fruits and veggies that can help nourish family playtime.
“A healthy curiosity and freedom to explore are essential ingredients for successful adventures, but fueling all of that fun is equally important,” said Sarah Smith-Simpson, PhD, principal food scientist at Gerber. “Kids need well-balanced nutr.