Childhood in the Outdoors

The beauty of summer to families in Russia, is that the barriers to the outdoors are greatly reduced. It no longer takes a long time to dress up and prepare for nature. All we need is the time and the will. For those of us lucky enough to have houses, dachas or holidays in fenced locations, sometimes all we need to do is give our children permission!

Here are some great reasons to include plenty of outdoor activities in your summer plans:

Behaviour Development

Research shows that outdoor play helps children develop stronger impulse control and attention span. Not only this, but engaging in some ‘risky play’ (climbing, building, sliding, trampoline jumping, etc…) helps children learn to manage their safety and decision-making skills.

Building Creativity

Indoor toys and games are often designed with a particular use in mind. However, the possibilities of a few balls, hoops, sticks and pine-cones are endless!

Reduced Device Use

Research shows that exploring wild nature helps people of all ages avoid devices. Going for a leisurely cycle or learning how to skateboard also commands your full attention!

Mental and Physical Health

Good all round health is important for learning. When children are outdoors, they seem to push themselves to their limits, seeing how far and fast they can run, or how high they can climb. This is great for their physical health, self-confidence and all round mental health.

Preparing for the Next Year of Learning

Connection with the outdoors has been shown to improve memory and attention span, which is great preparing for the next year of learning!

Lifelong Memories

There are so many special activities that take place outdoors, which can involve the whole family. Your children will definitely remember you cheering them on in a panda park ropes course, or even joining them in the treetops! The same goes for morning jogs, learning to build a fireplace, catching bugs or learning to ride a bike. This is a great time to build family bonds.

If you are remaining in Moscow this summer, it’s still possible to explore wild settings. This city has some world-class options for large, forested areas. My family’s favourite park is the Razdole and Malevich complex just outside of the MKAD, about 20 minutes from school. You can easily spend hours there and lose track of time. It’s possible to rent bikes, go on ropes courses (all ages), visit outdoor cafes, rent a bicycle, clamber over streams and waterfalls, play volleyball, view art installations, visit a playground, or just walk for miles.

Childhood is truly a precious gift and something to be enjoyed as a family. Wherever you are this summer, I wish you and your family all the very best during the warmer months.