Parents today are increasingly worried about how much time their kids spend in front of screens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that children aged 8 to 10 spend roughly six hours each day on entertainment media. For kids aged 11 to 14, this number jumps to around nine hours daily. This is a significant chunk of their day, often leading to children spending less time outside than even the average prisoner does.

If you’re a parent looking to encourage your children to play outdoors more, you’re not alone. Whether your kids are eager to get outside or resistant to the idea, here are some practical tips to help motivate them.

### Make Your Backyard Inviting
Technology and entertainment companies excel at making screens attractive to children. To compete, you need to make your backyard just as appealing. Start by ensuring your lawn is in good shape—consider using a strong grass seed for a lush, inviting lawn. Involve your children in the process of cleaning up and maintaining the yard; this can give them a sense of ownership. Ask for their input on what would make the space more enjoyable for them.

### The Benefits of Outdoor Play
Before diving into how to get your kids outside, it’s essential to understand why it matters. According to Harvard Health Publishing, outdoor play offers numerous health benefits for kids. These include:

– **Vitamin D:** Exposure to sunlight helps in the development of strong bones and boosts the immune system.
– **Physical Activity:** Being active outdoors helps keep their body and mind fit.
– **Skill Development:** Playing outside boosts executive function skills like planning and problem-solving.

### Tailor Activities to Their Interests and Ages
Outdoor play will vary depending on your child’s age and interests. Younger kids might enjoy smaller slides and simple games, while older children may prefer sports activities. Talk to them about what types of toys or equipment might interest them and involve them in shopping for these items. Also, make sure they have easy access to these outdoor toys.

### Encourage Imaginative Play
Not every moment outside needs to be structured. One of the appeals of video games is the ability to create and control worlds. Let your children use their imagination outside, too. While it can be nerve-wracking to give them freedom, it’s essential for their development. Set clear boundaries about how far they can go, how often they need to check in, and who it’s safe to spend time with. Within these limits, let them explore and decide how they want to play. This freedom fosters creativity and builds executive functioning skills.

### Play With Them
Your kids want you to be a part of their world, even if it doesn’t always seem that way. Spend quality time with them outdoors; go for bike rides, play catch, or explore new places together. This not only provides a model of a healthy lifestyle but also strengthens your relationship and creates lasting memories.

Ultimately, getting your kids to spend more time outside is about more than just reducing their screen time. It’s about enhancing their overall well-being and promoting a love for an active, outdoor lifestyle. While it may take some adjustment, it’s an effort that can lead to a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.