Dad Tip of the Day: Kids are naturally inquisitive, explorative and imaginative – as parents, we need to let our kids be kids and explore the world around them without unnecessary constraints.
Perhaps you have seen the “helicopter parents” who are always hovering over kids while they are outside or in a new place. The parents are so concerned about the kids getting hurt or getting into something they shouldn’t that they prohibit and stifle the kid’s free play. As parents, we need to do the opposite and encourage many of the natural growing opportunities that present themselves each day.
I found a good article online that talks about using adventure and nature to let kids be kids: http://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/2017/let-kids-be-kids
In the article, it talks about parents being a big barrier between children and their right to play freely in the outdoors. Stifling development in this area can lead to children having difficulties with emotional regulation and self-control, not to mention missing the physical benefits that come from being outdoors and playing. The mental, physical and cognitive health benefits of outdoor free play a large role in the growth and development of kids.
My kids love being outside and I love letting them explore and get as dirty as they want – here you can see Jacob playing on the cement with chalk and his play ripped a hole in his jeans…
Kids being kids!
Thanks for coming by today,
Brian