The Need For Nature this Summer

Jul 06, 2012 • Summer

Want Better Grades Next Fall?  Get Outside this Summer.

There are many factors  to consider in the quest for better grades. There’s the academic considerations: increased study time, hiring tutors, developing better habits such as time management and organization, and fine-tuning in-class learning skills.

And there are the at-home considerations:  improving sleep habits, implementing routines, and reducing screen time.

But new studies are showing that one factor that is often overlooked in the quest to improve kids’ educational experience: nature.

The so-called “Nature-Deficit Disorder”  is not necessarily a new term, but researchers and educators are recognizing and embracing the call of the wild and making it an essential part of the curriculum.

Getting outdoors in the summer is win-win-win.

WIN 1: Outdoor activity increases health benefits and combats the worrisome rise of childhood obesity rates in North America.

WIN 2: It increases blood flow to the brain, nourishing brain cells and strengthening neural connections. It improves mood and combats depression, which improves focus.

WIN 3: It gets kids outside, and away from the screens.

Start Young.

Canadian Statistics show that a 4 year-old’s physical activity can predict  activity level at age 17.

A new British survey has even put together a “Bucket List” of Outdoor Activities For Kids to do before they are 11 and three-quarters. (But no explanation of why 11 and three-quarters is the magic age. If you know why, let us know! )

Here are just a few of the ideas from the Free-and-Easy-and-Fun activities that you can easily incorporate into your family’s summer To-Do List:

• Fly a kite
• Learn how to skip a stone
• Make a Mud pie
• Dam a stream
• Bury someone in the sand
• Climb a tree
• Plant something.
• Discover what’s in a pond
• Find your way with a compass

So get the kids outside this summer! Lather on the sunscreen and don’t be afraid of scraped knees. Summer outdoor activity is critical to both childhood and to grades.

Don’t leave yet! Read more:

The Brain Never Goes on Vacation

Solving Math Word Problems

Let Your Kids Have Some Fun