Studies show spending time in nature can improve children’s attention spans

If your child has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or struggles with focus, you’ll be happy to hear that a simple walk in your local park might be beneficial.

CBC News recently reported that a review of hundreds of studies found time spent outdoors can result in improved attention span, self-discipline, and stress reduction.

“Researchers also found that children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who take a 20-minute walk in a park can improve their symptoms as effectively as if they took a dose of prescription stimulant medication.”

Here are some resources to help you and your family enjoy the many health benefits of being outdoors:

1. 1. How to help children connect with nature
      AfL’s Jim Grove outlines six tips for getting the most out of your kid’s time in nature.
   2. 3 ways to create a communal outdoor play space for the kids in your community
      Inspired by Mike Lanza, the author of Playborhood: Turn Your Neighborhood Into a Place for Play, here are some tips for how to create appealing outdoor hangout zones for kids to enjoy together.
   3. Turn your kids into active, nature ninjas with this fun twist on a scavenger hunt
      This adventurous scavenger hunt will get your kids interacting with the outdoors in a new way.