I’ve heard it all before. “Kids spend too much time indoors.” “Kids today don’t get outside enough.” “Too much screen time, not enough fresh air.” “Back in my day, we just sent our kids outside until dinner!”
I completely understand. My children would thrive and be happier if I could simply say, “Go outside!” and let them play until the sun goes down. Honestly, I’d appreciate the peace and quiet that would come from sending them off to explore. However, the reality is much more complex.
I would love to tell my kids to slip on their shoes and jackets and head out to play in the yard while I catch up on chores or even the latest news. They would relish that freedom, but the truth is we don’t have a house or a yard. Our apartment has a small, unfenced patch of grass behind it. Even there, I have to supervise them closely to ensure they don’t wander off into the parking lot, or worse, get into a dangerous situation.
And let’s be honest—9 square feet of grass isn’t going to keep two energetic kids entertained for long.
You might think that as they grow older, I could simply send them off with a backpack filled with snacks. Sure, that might work in a safer neighborhood, but many parents aren’t so fortunate. There are countless situations where parents don’t feel secure allowing their children to roam freely. What about working parents who return home after dark? There are so many factors to consider.
As parents, it’s our responsibility to provide our children with experiences that foster independence, helping them grow into well-adjusted adults. Outdoor play is undeniably beneficial for their development, maturity, and overall health. However, our primary duty is to keep them safe. Many of us live in environments where letting them venture into the unknown feels risky.
I don’t want to be an overprotective parent. I want my children to enjoy the outdoors, to feel the grass under their feet, and to engage in imaginative play. I dream of the day they can entertain themselves outside, giving me the opportunity to get things done. But that’s not the reality for many of us right now.
So, before you start insisting that kids simply need more outdoor play and that parents are overly cautious, please consider the diverse situations many families are facing. Instead of adding to our guilt, offer your support. A little encouragement goes a long way, reminding us that we’re doing our best.
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In summary, while the idea of simply sending kids outside sounds appealing, the complexities of modern parenting make it far more nuanced. Encouragement and understanding can help parents navigate these challenges.