Why It’s Crucial for Kids to Explore the Outdoors

Why It’s Crucial for Kids to Explore the Outdoors

In today’s fast-paced digital age, children spend nearly 7 hours a day glued to electronic devices such as phones, tablets, laptops, and televisions. This sedentary lifestyle can be detrimental to their health. It’s imperative for parents and caregivers to understand that excessive screen time can lead to various health issues in children.

Many influential people and media outlets have highlighted the declining activity rates among children for several years. A noteworthy example is former First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” campaign in 2010, aimed at encouraging a healthy lifestyle in children.

 

Importance of Connecting with Nature

Research shows that a lack of outdoor activities can lead to several issues. Children who don’t get exposure to the great outdoors miss out on essential learning experiences that nature uniquely provides. Outdoor activities are crucial not only for physical development but also for cognitive growth. Exposure to sunlight is vital for Vitamin D synthesis, which strengthens bones and the immune system.

In Indian tradition, the concept of children playing in the mud symbolizes a wholesome upbringing that strengthens immunity. Scientific studies have demonstrated that contact with diverse microorganisms in soil can bolster the immune system and improve overall health.

 

Skin Health Benefits of Outdoor Play

Exposure to nature and soil can significantly benefit skin health in children. Here’s how:

Microbial Diversity: Contact with soil introduces children to a variety of beneficial microorganisms. Studies indicate that these microorganisms can enhance the skin’s microbiome, improving skin barrier function and protecting against skin disorders such as eczema and allergies.

 

Natural Sunlight: Moderate exposure to sunlight helps in Vitamin D synthesis, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Vitamin D also plays a role in skin cell growth, repair, and metabolism, which can help prevent skin conditions like psoriasis.

 

Physical Activity: Outdoor play encourages physical activity, which increases blood flow and helps nourish skin cells. Improved circulation also helps carry away waste products, including free radicals, from working cells, providing a healthier skin appearance.

Stress Reduction: Playing outdoors can reduce stress levels in children. Lower stress levels are associated with fewer skin flare-ups and a lower risk of developing stress-related skin conditions like acne and eczema.

 

Social and Cognitive Benefits

Playing outdoors provides a remarkable opportunity for children to develop socially. Interacting with peers allows them to learn essential social skills such as empathy, cooperation, and friendship, which are vital for success later in life. Additionally, outdoor play stimulates creativity and problem-solving skills, enhancing cognitive development.

 

Final Thoughts

Encouraging children to spend time outdoors is crucial for their overall health and development. Alongside physical and cognitive benefits, exposure to nature and soil plays a significant role in enhancing skin health.

Let your little ones enjoy their outdoor adventures with ease, while CITTA’s range of baby bath and skincare products keeps their skin healthy, nourished, and well-protected.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much outdoor time is recommended for children daily?

It’s generally recommended that children spend at least 1 to 2 hours outdoors each day. This can be broken up into shorter periods throughout the day. Engaging in a variety of activities like playing, walking, or sports can ensure they reap the full range of physical, cognitive, and skin health benefits.

Can playing in the sun cause skin damage?

While moderate sun exposure is beneficial for Vitamin D synthesis and overall skin health, it’s essential to take precautions to prevent skin damage. Applying age-appropriate sunscreen with at least SPF 50, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) can help protect children’s skin from harmful UV rays while still allowing them to enjoy the benefits of outdoor play.

How does exposure to soil and nature improve skin health?

Exposure to soil introduces children to diverse microorganisms that can enhance their skin microbiome. A healthy skin microbiome strengthens the skin barrier and protects against skin conditions like eczema and allergies. Additionally, outdoor play and physical activity improve circulation, which nourishes skin cells and helps remove toxins, promoting healthier skin.

What are the cognitive benefits of outdoor activities for children?

Outdoor activities stimulate children’s brains in unique ways that indoor activities often do not. Nature play encourages creativity, problem-solving, and exploration. It also reduces stress levels, which can improve focus and cognitive function. Social interactions during outdoor play help children develop essential social skills, such as empathy, cooperation, and communication.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

  • The Delicate Balance of Children's Skin: Why Ad...

    Are you using your shampoo for your kids as well? Is it safe for your kids? Are you a parent struggling to find the right skincare products for your kids...

    Read more

    The Delicate Balance of Children's Skin: Why Adult Skincare Isn't Suitable

    Are you using your shampoo for your kids as well? Is it safe for your kids? Are you a parent struggling to find the right skincare products for your kids and teens? Many parents even switch to using adult products once their kids reach 6 years old due to this confusion. As parents, our children's well-being is paramount, and understanding the unique needs of their developing skin and hair is crucial. Their skin and hair differ significantly from adults, and using adult products can have adverse effects. Dr. Prajakta Bhokre, a seasoned pediatrician and neonatologist in Pune, emphasizes, “Children's skin and hair are delicate and require special care. Adult skincare and hair care products can disrupt the delicate balance and harm their developing systems." Kids' Skin: A Delicate Canvas To comprehend the importance of specialized care for children's skin, we must recognize the structural differences between their skin and adults'. A child's skin is thinner, more delicate, and has a higher surface area to body weight ratio than adults. Their skin's natural protective barrier, composed of lipids, is not fully developed, which means their skin is not as efficient at retaining moisture and is more susceptible to dehydration, irritation, and damage from environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollutants. Even the pH level of a child's skin is more acidic, which helps to ward off harmful bacteria and makes it more sensitive to changes and potential damage. Their hair is finer and less oily, resulting in a greater tendency for tangles and breakage. Why It's Unsafe for Kids to Use Adult Products? Adult skincare and hair care products often contain potent ingredients like parabens, sulphates, silicones, talc, and phthalates that may be too harsh for a child's delicate skin and hair. Ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, and strong fragrances can strip away natural oils, disrupt the skin's pH balance, and cause allergies, rashes, or even chemical burns in children. Moreover, many adult products are formulated to address age-specific concerns, such as wrinkles or acne, which are not relevant to children. Ideal Ingredients for Kids' Skincare and Hair Care For kids aged 5-10, it's important to choose products with gentle, natural ingredients. Ingredients like almond oil, olive oil, basil oil, rice protein, aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, turmeric oil, and oats are not only nourishing but also gentle on young skin and hair. “These ingredients hydrate, protect, soothe, and help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, promoting healthy growth and making them perfect for nurturing young skin and hair,” says Dr. Bhokre The Importance of Age-Appropriate Products (0-10 years) It's essential to select age-appropriate products for kids. Dr. Bhokre further states that “Children aged 5-10 years should use products specifically designed for their age group, such as baby products ranging from 0-10 years. These products are formulated with the unique needs of growing children's skin and hair in mind, providing gentle care without harsh chemicals.” They contain milder ingredients, ensuring that kids' skin remains protected and nourished. pH Levels: A Precarious Balance A child's skin is more prone to pH level changes than an adult's. Their skin's pH is naturally more acidic at around 5.5, which acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria. Adult products can disrupt this delicate balance, leaving their skin vulnerable, further leading to dryness, itchiness,  infections, or even eczema. Structural Differences in Hair In addition to skin, a child's hair is structurally different from an adult's. Children's hair is finer, more fragile, less porous and lacks the oil-producing capabilities of adult hair. Adult hair products may strip their hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Ingredients to Avoid in Kids' Products “When selecting skincare and hair care products for kids, it's essential to avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates, talc, asbestos, silicones, mineral oils, parabens, and strong fragrances. These ingredients can irritate the skin and harm their overall health”, says Dr. Bhokre. Opt for products that are free from harmful additives to keep the child’s skin healthy while keeping them safe from the detrimental effects of these harmful chemicals. At CITTA we focus on using the highest quality natural ingredients while keeping harsh chemicals at bay. Our products are carefully formulated to cater to the unique needs of children's skin and hair. CITTA prioritizes safety and nourishment for kids' skin and our commitment to natural ingredients ensures that children can enjoy healthy, glowing skin without the risk of adverse reactions. While it may be tempting to use adult skincare and hair care products on your children, it's essential to consider their unique skin and hair needs. Opt for products specifically designed for kids, enriched with natural ingredients, and free from harsh chemicals. Our products promote healthy skin for children while emphasizing the importance of nourishment and safety in children's skincare routines. After all, our children deserve the very best, and that begins with caring for their delicate skin and hair with the utmost attention and care.

    Read More

  • Baby's Delicate Skin Deserves the Best: Choose ...

    Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD) is a distinguished Consulting Pediatrician in Pune. With an impressive track record, he served as Former President of the Maharashtra State Academy of Pediatrics in 2010...

    Read more

    Baby's Delicate Skin Deserves the Best: Choose the Perfect Skincare for your Bundle of Joy

    Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD) is a distinguished Consulting Pediatrician in Pune. With an impressive track record, he served as Former President of the Maharashtra State Academy of Pediatrics in 2010 and Former President of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics Pune Branch from 2008 to 2009. He's also the Director of Unique Hospital for Children and Kartik Group of Hospitals in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune. Dr Dhekne is recognized as a Master Trainer for both the "Asthma Training Module" and "Problem-Solving in Paediatric Infectious Diseases (PSPID)" by IAP.  As you embark on this new adventure called parenting, keeping your bundle of joy cosy and well-fed becomes your top-most priority. You’d move mountains to ensure they’re showered with all the TLC in the world; you would go to any lengths to protect them. Apart from ensuring the right nutrition and shielding them from heat and cold, even delicate matters like choosing the right skincare for your ‘mini-me’ can become an uphill task. Their sensitive and delicate skin requires the utmost care. If you’re unsure about how to choose the best skincare products for your little munchkins, we’ve got you covered! Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD), who is among the distinguished consulting pediatricians from Pune, is here to drop some wisdom on pampering that adorable epidermis and the dos and don'ts of skincare for babies. He also gives us a low-down on how to pick the safest baby skincare brands: Allergen-free formulations:  Opt for products that are free from harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, and dyes. Allergen-free formulations are designed to minimise the risk of adverse reactions and are gentler on your baby's skin. Avoid harmful ingredients:  “Avoid products that contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial preservatives, as these chemicals can cause skin irritations and potential long-term health risks. Instead, choose products with natural Indian ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, turmeric oil, and almond oil, known for their soothing properties,” says Dr Dhekne. Moisturisation is key: Babies are prone to dry skin, especially in certain weather conditions. Choose moisturising products specifically formulated for babies to keep their skin soft and hydrated. Read labels thoroughly: Take the time to read product labels carefully and pay attention to certifications such as ‘paediatrician-tested’ and ‘dermatologist-approved.’ These endorsements offer added assurance about the product's safety and efficacy. Minimalistic approach: Stick to the essentials for baby skincare, such as a gentle baby wash and moisturiser. Avoid overwhelming your baby’s skin with too many products. Consult a paediatric dermatologist: When in doubt, seek professional advice. Paediatricians can assess your baby’s skin type and recommend suitable products based on their needs. A dermatologist can also provide personalised guidance if your child has specific skin conditions like eczema or cradle cap. “The natural ingredients in babycare products help soothe and protect the delicate baby skin, leaving it soft, supple and healthy. Parents can witness improved skin conditions, reduced irritation and a noticeable difference in their baby's overall skin health after using natural and organic products,” adds Dr Dhekne. When it comes to baby skincare, it’s always better to exercise caution. You can embrace the benefits of natural care through CITTA’s dermatologist-approved and ‘conscious’ baby skincare products. The brand is committed to crafting products with natural ingredients while maintaining the highest safety and efficacy standards. CITTA’s baby skincare range comprises gentle and nourishing formulations enriched with plant extracts, essential oils, and botanical goodness.

    Read More