At The Children’s Clinic in Jackson, Tennessee, we believe kids thrive when they move their bodies, engage their senses, and explore the world around them. One of the best ways to encourage this healthy development? Let them play outside!

From reducing stress to boosting physical health and brain function, outdoor play is a powerhouse for childhood growth. And the best part? You don’t need to travel far—nature is all around us.

Nature Is Everywhere

Whether you live in the city or the country, nature is closer than you think. A backyard garden, a neighborhood playground, or even a tree-lined sidewalk offers kids the chance to explore. Many communities, including those in and around Jackson, TN, have public parks that are walkable, wheelchair-accessible, and full of features for all ages. You can even search your zip code to find local green spaces.

No matter where you go, stepping outdoors brings fresh opportunities to learn, play, and bond as a family.

Outdoor Play Ideas by Age

Infants & Toddlers

Even the tiniest children benefit from time outside.

Tummy time on a blanket lets babies soak up sights, smells, and sounds that support sensory development.
Narrate your walk like a tour guide. Describe trees, birds, buildings, and street signs to build early vocabulary.
Outdoor story time is perfect on a sunny afternoon. Reading books about nature outdoors makes connections even stronger.
Roll a ball back and forth to build social, physical, and motor skills—all while laughing together.

Preschool & Elementary-Age Kids

Children learn through movement and imagination.

Make nature art by collecting twigs, leaves, and stones to create sculptures with play dough or chalk drawings.
Invent new worlds—a tree becomes a pirate ship, a patch of flowers becomes a jungle.
Give them real tasks like watering flowers or digging a small hole for planting. Preschoolers love to help.
Walk, scoot, or ride bikes and talk about what you see to expand vocabulary and observation skills.
Play leader games like “follow the silly walk” to build confidence and creativity.
Plan outdoor playdates to strengthen friendships and get everyone moving.

Tweens & Teens

Outdoor time is just as important—maybe even more so—as kids grow older.

Create a nature scavenger hunt and explore together. Encourage teens to research plants or birds they find.
Send kids on a “spy mission” following chalk arrows or secret messages left by friends.
Build a simple bird feeder and keep a journal of which birds show up.
Organize family sports time like frisbee, soccer, or even cornhole in the backyard.
Picnic or grill out with family and friends to enjoy time together without screens.
Walk and talk with your teen. Walking side-by-side makes emotional check-ins more natural.

Why Outdoor Play Is So Important

The benefits of outdoor play go far beyond having fun. Spending time in nature helps children:

Stay physically healthy. Outdoor play boosts movement, builds motor skills, reduces the risk of obesity, and improves vision.
Think more clearly. Being outside promotes curiosity, focus, and creativity—essential skills for success in school.
Feel more emotionally balanced. Children who play outside show fewer signs of stress, anxiety, and mood swings.
Manage behavior better. Natural settings are linked to improved impulse control, fewer meltdowns, and better social interactions.
Support mental health. Time outdoors has been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD and depression.

Make It a Habit

You don’t need to go far or spend money to make outdoor play part of your routine. Just 20–30 minutes a day outside can make a big difference in your child’s health and happiness.

Before you head out:

Dress for the weather
Use sunscreen and bug spray as needed
Wash hands or use sanitizer after outdoor play

And remember, outdoor play is a great way for parents and caregivers to relax too!

Let’s Keep Kids Moving—Together

At The Children’s Clinic, we’re here to support the full picture of your child’s well-being—from checkups and vaccinations to advice about daily routines that support growth and learning.

Have questions about developmental milestones, outdoor safety, or screen-time limits? We’re here to help.

📍 The Children’s Clinic of Jackson, TN
264 Coatsland Dr, Jackson, TN 38301
📞 Call us at 731-423-1500
🌐 Visit: www.jacksonchildrensclinic.com