Indoor Play Vs. Outdoor Play: Which Is Better?

Some of the best memories of our childhoods are the times we spent outdoors, running around barefoot and creating a world of make-believe among the trees. Playing outside in the fresh air is incredibly beneficial for children. But, that’s not to say that indoor play is any less important. In fact, playing inside the house can be just as beneficial for physical, cognitive, and social development—with the added convenience of not being weather-dependent. We’ll break down the benefits of indoor play vs. the benefits of outdoor play to see if one really is better than the other:

What are the benefits of indoor play?

1. Indoor play safely supports physical development.

While kids can run, jump, and climb more outdoors than they can indoors, there’s also greater risk of injury—especially in hot or rainy weather. Indoor play can also include physical activity in a much safer way. A thick, padded play mat or bean bag can be used for protective cushioning to prevent bumps and bruises after taking a tumble.

2. Indoor play fosters social and emotional development

When children play indoors, they work within a smaller space with fewer resources. This provides an ideal setting for them to interact with their peers and develop social skills through communication, cooperation, negotiation, and problem-solving.

3. Indoor play allows for focused learning.

Whether your little one is flipping through board books, solving a puzzle, or building a tower with blocks, playing indoors allows them to focus on a task and complete it. This helps them process emotions and develop concentration.

Indoor play activities for your child

• Create a make-believe world in a play tent: A play tent is one of the most versatile pieces your child can have in their play room. It encourages imaginative play, fosters independence, and provides a sanctuary for your little one to retreat to when they’re processing big emotions. 

• Set up an obstacle course: Encourage gross motor development by setting up an obstacle course in their play room or your living room. Use things like a pop-up tunnel, play cubes, and furniture to get your little one moving and working on their balance. 

• Engage in sensory play: The beauty of sensory play is that you can use anything in your home. You don’t need special toys marketed for sensory play; instead, rummage through your pantry and other rooms to look for different textures for tactile learning. Dried beans, uncooked rice, shaving cream, ice, and soapy water all make great materials for sensory play.
  

What are the benefits of outdoor play?

1. Outdoor play advances motor skills.

 Children who spend more time outdoors are more likely to develop more advanced motor skills than children who spend most of their time indoors. Outdoor environments give little ones the space they need to develop agility, balance, and coordination through risky play.

2. Outdoor play promotes physical health.

Kids are naturally active creatures, and being outside lets them do what they enjoy doing most—running, jumping, climbing, throwing and kicking balls, and more. Outdoor play is the best way for them to develop a habit of being active.

3. Outdoor play boosts cognitive development. 

Outdoor environments are sensory-rich learning environments that stimulate your child’s curiosity. Whether you and your little one are watching a parade of ants, observing the changing colors of leaves in the fall, or counting rocks, being outdoors invites so many contexts for learning.

4. Outdoor play promotes better sleep. 

Studies have shown that children who play outdoors sleep better at night. It’s well-known that being outside in nature and sunlight reduces stress and helps regulate your circadian rhythm. If you want less fuss at bedtime and a better rested child, spending more time outdoors just may be the key!

Outdoor play activities for your child

• Go on a nature walk: No matter how old your child is, a nature walk is one of the easiest ways to spend time outdoors. If your little one is too young to walk on their own, wear them in a baby carrier or place them in a stroller, and walk around your neighborhood. Point out the things you see, hear, and feel, and as they grow, you can encourage them to do the same.

• Relax on the grass: Find a comfortable spot in your front yard, backyard, or local park, and lay down on your vegan leather play mat or picnic blanket. Bring bubbles, books, or any small activities that you would do indoors and simply do them outdoors. If your child wants to crawl, walk, or run around, let them explore their environment. It’s great for their cognitive development! 

• Invest in a mud kitchen: Although your child doesn’t need any tools to play outside, a mud kitchen can encourage imagination and boost fine motor skills with hands-on, messy play. Using dirt, water, rocks, flowers, leaves, and anything else immediately available, your child can create to their heart’s content.

So, when it comes to indoor play and outdoor play, is one truly better than the other? The truth is that both are just as important to your child’s well-being, and that engaging in a combination of both indoor and outdoor play is the best way for your child to develop physically and intellectually!