As technology continues to develop, children spend less and less time outdoors and in nature. The development of large urban areas also cut into the amount of nature families have access to. However, nature is an incredibly important part of children’s development, and it is an aspect that cannot be neglected by parents!
What are the benefits of being in nature?
- Prompts creativity and imagination (source)
- Encourages intellectual and cognitive development (source)
- Improves social relationships (source)
- Improves motor skills
- Allow children to have a better spiritual and emotional connection to the world (source)
- Lowers risk of socioemotional and behavioral problems (source)
How can I implement this into my child’s life?
- Focus on areas with trees, insects, and dirt. Some experts believe that outdoor areas with greenery, insects, and many opportunities for developmentally appropriate play would be the best outdoor environment for children to be in. Finding parks, hiking trails, or playgrounds with ample greenery would be your best bet!
- Find time for outdoor activities each day. This can be as simple as taking a walk outside for 5 minutes, or spending an afternoon exploring a new hiking trail. The best way to stay consistent with this is to incorporate outdoor time into something you already do everyday, such as playing with the family pet!
- Go on an animal scavenger hunt. If your child likes animals, take them outside and try to find as many bugs and animals as you can! You can come up with a list of animals to find together, and check off the list each time you see an animal while outside.
What are some outdoor activities I can do with my child near Jakarta?
- Scientia Square Park (BSD): This activity center in BSD has many activities that are appropriate for children, including animal feeding exhibits and sports areas!
- Hutan Kota GBK: Go on a picnic or a family run at GBK! The area has many public facilities, including a park and a roller skating rink, that can allow your child to burn off some energy and spend time in nature.
- Car-Free Sunday: Go for a family run or bike ride on Sunday in Central Jakarta! Though car-free days occur in a very urbanized part of Jakarta, it’s still a great way for your child to get some sunshine and step outdoors.
- Go MRT hopping: The MRT, which runs from Central to South Jakarta, is a fairly inexpensive way to get around the city. You and your child can get off at different stations and see what the surrounding areas have to offer! Some notable places include SCBD Park (Stasiun Istora Mandiri) and Urban Forest (Stasiun Cipete Raya).
