April showers bring May flowers! Not only is this rainy time of year good for the earth, it brings many benefits for our children’s development. Playing outside in the rain can positively impact your child as they grow in a variety of ways, including:
- Physically. When a child plays outside, they rely on their gross motor skills–running, jumping, climbing, etc. The rain can increase the need for balance, along with providing puddles to jump in! This strengthens their coordination and encourages them to be aware of their surroundings. Playing outside in the rain also positively impacts their immune systems–just make sure they are dressed appropriately to go outside and once they come back in.
- Sensory. Rain provides a unique sensory experience by transforming the world around them with different sights, smells, sounds, and touches. Sensory input from the outdoors helps build neural pathways in the brain and promotes self-regulation.
- Creativity. Rain encourages them to explore their surroundings via simply walking/running around, drawing with chalk (which can turn paint-like when wet), using their imaginations and playing with mud, dancing/singing, or catching rain drops on their tongue. It allows them to problem solve, cultivate a sense of wonder, and contributes to their overall intellectual development.
- Mental Health. It’s been shown that playing outdoors for at least 20 minutes a day helps kids self-regulate and lower cortisol levels. When most adults see rain, they think to stay inside. However, being inside all day can lead to sensory overload for the little ones.
Contact our office today to see how playing in the rain can help achieve your child’s therapy goals.
