Press Release - Outdoor Play Essential for Redmond Kids

Outdoor Play Essential for Redmond Kids

Effective Immediately
July 30, 2015

Redmond, WA – Run through the grassy meadow at Farrel-McWhirter Park, hike a nature trail at Watershed Preserve, build a sand castle at Idylwood Park, or zip down the slide at your neighborhood park. It sounds like fun for a child. It is - and much more.

Outdoor play has always been important for children’s health and development. It’s even more important today. Children spend less time outdoors than they ever have. Children spend more time indoors playing video games, watching TV, using electronic devices and are much less physically active. This has contributed to one out of three children being overweight or obese. Also, a recent study shared by the American Heart Association showed kids take 90 seconds longer to run a mile now compared to kids in the 1980s.

 “Most kids just aren’t as physically active as they need to be for good health. We all feel better when we get outside and move,” said Redmond Parks and Recreation Director Craig Larsen. “Summer is a great time for families to get out and play together, to walk the Central Connector or ride at the Bike Park,” Larsen said.

Most people know that outdoor play has many physical benefits for children including motor skills development, improved muscle strength, improved balance, better cardiovascular health, and reduced risk of diabetes. Many people don’t know all of the other benefits outdoor play provides.

When children are outdoors, away from their predictable indoor spaces, all five of their senses become stimulated and heightened. They discover things they haven’t seen, touched, or heard before. Children begin to explore, create, and imagine. Studies have shown these outdoor experiences have a very positive effect on children’s learning. In the classroom, children can focus more and they demonstrate fewer behavior problems. At the same time, these students are more creative and have improved thinking skills. Some academics are recommending time in nature before homework.

Outdoor play also has very positive effects on children’s mental health. Research has shown being in green spaces has calming and restorative properties. Playing outdoors can reduce stress and anxiety in children. For children with ADHD, time in green spaces can reduce their symptoms.

The benefits of outdoor play for children are truly amazing! So, grab the kids and get outdoors this summer in Redmond parks. Visit the animals and hike the trails at Farrel-McWhirter Park, climb the rope play equipment at Grass Lawn Park, go for a swim, play pickle ball, or visit the neighborhood park close to home. Outdoor play for children is not only fun; it’s also essential!

Redmond Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of outdoor activities, including pony and horse riding, Skateboard Club at the Edge Skate Park, and the Farm School at Farrel-McWhirter. For more information about Redmond parks and outdoor recreation programs visit the current recreation guide at www.RedmondRecreationGuide.Com. This press release is available on www.redmond.gov.

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Parks and Recreation 
Dave Tuchek
Park Operations Manager
dtuchek@redmond.gov 
425-556-2318